By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has dismissed as false a statement circulating on social media claiming that businessman Wicknell Munodaani Chivayo was being sought for questioning in connection with alleged fraud-related activities.
In an official statement released on November 2, 2025, the police disowned the viral document, describing it as “false and misleading” and warning the public against spreading fake news.
According to a post on the ZRP’s verified X account (@PoliceZimbabwe), the police said:
“Reference is made to a fake press statement that has gone viral on social media platforms. The press statement did not originate from the official ZRP communication channels. Members of the public are therefore advised to disregard it as false and misleading.”
The police said investigations are underway to identify and take action against those responsible for circulating the forged document.
“The ZRP is aware of individuals and groups responsible for circulating the fake press statement and appropriate investigations are underway. The public is urged to rely only on information released through the official ZRP platforms and verified media sources,” read part of the statement.
The fabricated statement, dated November 1, 2025, was designed to resemble an official memorandum from the Police General Headquarters.
It was titled “ZRP Press Statement” and falsely claimed to have been signed by Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the Chief Staff Officer (Press and Public Relations) to the Commissioner-General of Police.
The fake document alleged that Chivayo was wanted by the police in connection with a fraud investigation and related criminal activities, and that he had been asked to report to Harare Central Police Station for questioning.
The ZRP reiterated that the document was entirely fabricated and urged the public to verify any information before sharing it online.
“Members of the public are advised to rely only on information released through the official ZRP platforms and verified media sources,” the police statement concluded.