Man impersonating Chiwenga arrested over Whatsapp message

A man recently appeared in court for using the username ‘General G Chiwenga’ in a WhatsApp group meant for news updates, landing him in hot water over impersonation allegations.

Rodwell Gowere, a 36-year-old artisanal miner from Shurugwi, got into trouble for engaging in discussions within the group using his Econet number. Details about the case are slim, but he got out on bail set at US$100 by Harare magistrate Dennis Mangosi and is due back in court on January 15.

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The State, represented by Zebediah Bofu, accused Gowere of unlawfully posing as Vice President Constantino Chiwenga.

Also Read: Daring Man Arrested After Impersonating VP Chiwenga To Get Free Medication

This isn’t the first time someone has tried to pull off impersonating Vice President Constantino Chiwenga.

Back in September 2021, a 35-year-old man named Marlon Katiyo faced charges for allegedly using Chiwenga’s name to snag free medical care at two Harare medical centres. Katiyo went to great lengths, using different aliases like General Chiwenga and Dominic Chiwenga, one of the VP’s middle names, along with changing addresses to dodge debt collectors.

In another notable case, Loyd Mutotore, a general hand within the state security department, faced charges of impersonation and physical abuse. Mutotore appeared before Harare magistrate Dennis Mangosi in May this year. The court learned that, between February and May, Mutotore had posed as a brother and close aide to Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. He attended the Vice President’s business and private functions, claiming to be attached to the VP’s office.

Mutotore’s charade unravelled when he was reported for allegedly assaulting his wife and wielding a gun, leading to his arrest.