By Fanuel Chinowaita
HARARE, April 23, 2026 — Detectives from the CID Stores and Business Unit in Harare have arrested a 30-year-old man in connection with a fraud case in which a Chitungwiza-based promoter was allegedly duped of US$750 in a failed entertainment booking deal.
The suspect, identified as Bernard Dheya of Mbare, was taken into custody following investigations into a complaint lodged by Annah Mbew (32) of Zengeza 1, Chitungwiza. Police confirmed that the arrest was made under reference ZRP Five Avenue CR 143/04/26.
According to police documents, the complainant entered into an agreement with Dheya and an accomplice, only identified as “Silent Killer,” during a meeting held on February 8, 2026 at Signature Bar in Harare’s central business district.
The duo allegedly undertook to travel to Mutare and perform at Platinum Leisure Bar on April 18.
Mbew reportedly paid a deposit of US$750 for the performance, with the understanding that the artists would arrive in Mutare a day before the scheduled event.
However, the suspects failed to show up and allegedly became evasive, prompting the complainant to file a police report.
Investigations by CID detectives led to the arrest of Dheya, while the second suspect remains at large. Authorities said no property was recovered upon arrest, and the full amount is still outstanding.
“The accused misrepresented that they would perform at the booked venue, but failed to deliver the service and went into hiding,” reads part of the police report.
Dheya is currently in police custody and is expected to appear in court soon facing fraud charges. Police have appealed to members of the public with information that may lead to the arrest of the second suspect to come forward.
The total value defrauded is pegged at US$750, with no recoveries made so far.
Investigations are continuing.