Six suspected debit cards fraudsters arrested at ...

Six suspected debit cards fraudsters arrested at airport

Banks issued 63 percent higher debit cards in 2019 than in 2015: RBI Data

Michael Mashiri

Six men who were caught in possession of several debit cards belonging to many other people at the Robert Mugabe International Airport have appeared in court.

Fungai Samurewo, 35, of Seke, Chitungwiza, Frank Chikoto, 36 of New Msasa, Clever Manhombo, 40, New Zengeza and Pardon Muwungani, 28, Budiriro 1, Takudzwa Chikohoro, 26, of Hillside and Tererai Chakanyuka, 18, of Greendale were before magistrate Stanford Mambanje at the Harare Magistrates' Court accused of unauthorised use and possession of credit cards.

The State alleges that, on May 19, 2023, detectives from CID Homicide were informed that the six had been arrested at Robert Mugabe International Airport whilst in possession of a suspected firearm.

They went to Robert Mugabe International Airport where it was established that the alleged firearm was an air gun with an empty magazine.

The six were searched and were found with two surgical blades, seven bank cards, super glue and cigarette lighter, which are deemed items used in the commission of fraud cases.

Samurewo had an FNB visa card with a tempered chip and a OneMoney debit card as well as a tempered FBC debit card with the name Talent Kisimusi.

Manhombo had a Steward bank card and a tempered FBC bank card in the name of Wenyika Michael.

Muwungani had two surgical blades, one used super glue and a tempered FBC debit card in the name of Mukunguma Courage and a tempered CABS debit card bearing the name Kuuzabuwe G.

They were interviewed and failed to give a reasonable excuse or explanation for having the aforementioned articles as none of them were owners of the debit cards or authorised to be with them.

Mambanje remanded the six to Wednesday for bail ruling. The submissions will be done tomorrow.