The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has sounded the alarm over a new scam circulating on social media, targeting unsuspecting motorists with fake messages claiming they owe traffic fines and must pay them online. The warning comes amid growing reports from concerned citizens who have received suspicious text messages demanding payment for alleged traffic violations.
In a statement released this week, ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged members of the public to disregard the fraudulent message, which falsely claims to be from the police. He confirmed that the message was not issued by the ZRP and emphasized that the police currently do not accept traffic fine payments via online platforms.
“This message is a scam,” said Commissioner Nyathi. “It was not generated by the Zimbabwe Republic Police and should be ignored. The public is strongly advised not to respond or make any form of payment in response to this message.”
The fake message reads:
“Reminder: Unpaid traffic ticket TKT-174920433665 for ACR2025 issued on 2025-06-06 under Road Traffic Act. Fine: 10.00 USD. Due by 2025-06-20. Settle now to avoid late fees and penalties.”
According to Commissioner Nyathi, such messages are designed to create a sense of urgency, pressuring recipients to send money without verifying the authenticity of the claim. He reiterated that any traffic fines issued by police officers must be settled physically at designated police stations and not through text prompts or mobile links.
ZRP Warns Public Over Fake Online Traffic Fine Scam
“The ZRP does not use third-party SMS services or digital platforms for traffic fine notifications or collections,” he added. “When the time comes to introduce an official online payment system, the public will be notified through proper government channels, press statements, and public notices.”
Commissioner Nyathi further urged motorists to be extra vigilant and to avoid clicking on any suspicious links or making payments to unknown entities. He also called on individuals who may have received such messages or fallen victim to the scam to report the matter to their nearest police station or contact the ZRP hotline.
The scam appears to be part of a broader wave of cyber fraud that has been targeting mobile users through phishing schemes and fake government notifications. By impersonating trusted institutions such as the police, the scammers exploit public trust and attempt to steal money from unsuspecting victims.
The ZRP is now working in coordination with its cybercrime unit and relevant telecommunications authorities to trace the source of the fraudulent messages. Investigations are already underway, and the public has been assured that efforts are being made to bring the perpetrators to justice.
“We are treating this matter seriously,” Nyathi said. “Any individuals or syndicates found to be behind these criminal acts will face the full wrath of the law.”
The police have also taken this opportunity to educate the public on how legitimate traffic fine processes work. Typically, a police officer issues a traffic ticket at the time of the offence, and payment is made at a police station using an official Z69J receipt book. At no point are motorists asked to pay fines via mobile platforms, random messages, or third-party intermediaries.
Motorists are encouraged to verify the legitimacy of any ticket or correspondence they receive by contacting the ZRP directly. It is also advisable to remain alert to signs of fraud, such as poor grammar in messages, unfamiliar web links, or pressure to make immediate payments.
The police spokesperson reminded citizens to report any cybercrime incidents and provide screenshots or records of suspicious messages, which could help in tracking and prosecuting those responsible.
In the meantime, the ZRP will continue to issue public alerts and updates as investigations progress. Commissioner Nyathi concluded by urging the public to remain calm, vigilant, and always confirm with official sources before taking any action regarding traffic or legal matters.
“This is a time for the public to remain watchful,” he said. “Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, but together—with community vigilance and swift police action—we can protect each other from falling prey to these deceptions.”
Source- Bulawayo24
