UK-based recruiter charged in Harare visa scam

A UK-based recruiter has been charged in Harare for defrauding Zimbabweans seeking care-worker jobs in Britain (image source)

A UK-based recruitment agent stands accused in Harare Magistrates’ Court of defrauding multiple Zimbabwean jobseekers by promising care-worker placements and work visas in Britain but failing to deliver visas or jobs after collecting fees, according to court records and victim testimony.

Police charged the suspect with fraud following complaints from applicants who each paid between US$2,000 and US$4,000 for placement and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) guarantees. Victims allege they were given counterfeit documents, fake employer contacts, or no follow-through, leaving families financially devastated. One complainant, who asked to remain unnamed, said she paid US$3,900 for a care-worker placement and spent months securing medical and police vetting documents before being told the UK sponsor had withdrawn — with no refund forthcoming. “I sold my livestock and borrowed money for this. Now I have no job and heavy debt,” she said in court testimony.

According to the UK Home Office, genuine care-worker jobs for overseas nationals require a licensed sponsor and an assigned CoS. Immigration lawyers in Harare warn that fraudulent recruiters exploit gaps in public knowledge of UK immigration systems. Perpetrators often present forged documents or even set up fake employer websites to appear legitimate. “Victims should always verify sponsors on the UK government register and be wary of large upfront fees for visas,” said immigration lawyer Thandiwe Moyo. She advised applicants to independently confirm employer credentials and preserve all communications as evidence.

Police investigators say they are tracing money flows and cooperating with UK authorities. Prosecutors acknowledged that the cross-border nature of the alleged scam complicates evidence gathering but pointed to bank transfer records, mobile money trails, and witness statements as forming a strong case.

Recruitment fraud has escalated in recent years as more Zimbabweans pursue migration amid economic strain. Past scams have centred on fake student or work visa offers. Authorities have since ramped up awareness campaigns, warning the public to verify all job offers through official channels.

Officials warn that financial losses from scams not only cripple households but also push victims into borrowing from informal lenders, creating further vulnerability. The case has also raised concerns that legitimate agencies may suffer reputational damage, making it harder for Zimbabweans to access genuine opportunities abroad.

The accused is expected to return to court for a bail hearing and preliminary trial dates. Police said they will seek mutual legal assistance from UK agencies to obtain further records. Authorities urge prospective migrants to check the UK sponsor licence register and to report any suspicious recruiters.