Charge Those Celebrities: Victims Demand Accountability in Vecco Lupa’s Migration Scam

Victims of the Vecco Lupa migration scam demand accountability from celebrities who endorsed the fraudulent scheme (image source)

Victims of the Vecco Lupa migration scam are calling for criminal and civil accountability from celebrities and social media influencers who promoted the scheme, arguing that their endorsements helped legitimise a fraudulent operation that swindled thousands of Zimbabweans. The scheme, marketed as a fast-track migration pathway to Europe and North America, collapsed after authorities revealed that its visas, job offers, and documentation were fabricated. Many victims say they paid substantial fees believing the promises were credible because well-known public figures publicly vouched for the company.

Anger has intensified around the role of high-profile musicians, actors, and online personalities who produced glowing testimonials, promotional videos, and social media campaigns for Vecco Lupa. Victims argue that these endorsements directly influenced them to invest, creating a false sense of trust and legitimacy. “We trusted them because they were celebrities. They told us it was real. Now we are left with nothing,” said one affected client. Legal experts say influencers could face charges if investigations show they knowingly promoted fraudulent services or benefited financially without conducting due diligence.

Consumer protection organisations have warned that public figures must be held to higher ethical standards, arguing that influence carries responsibility. Authorities have arrested several Vecco Lupa executives and are reviewing promotional content, payment records, and contracts to determine whether participating celebrities were complicit or simply negligent. Analysts say the case exposes critical gaps in the regulation of influencer marketing in Zimbabwe, especially as more consumers depend on online endorsements when evaluating services.

Lawyers representing victims say civil claims will target both Vecco Lupa and the influencers who promoted it, arguing that endorsements created deceptive trust that directly led to financial losses. They insist that celebrities who profited from the scam cannot avoid liability by claiming ignorance. The scandal has also amplified concerns about the vulnerability of Zimbabweans seeking opportunities abroad, with high unemployment and economic hardship making many susceptible to migration fraud. Government officials have urged citizens to verify any overseas recruitment offers through official channels and warned against relying solely on social media advertising.

The impact on victims has been severe, with many having sold property, taken loans, or depleted savings in hopes of securing foreign jobs. Community leaders are calling for structured support to help affected families recover. As investigations deepen, the case is expected to reshape regulation around influencer endorsements and consumer protection. For the victims, the demand remains clear: those who helped amplify the scam must be held accountable.