GABORONE, Botswana – A 29-year-old Zimbabwean man accused of orchestrating an international job-seekers scam has been remanded in custody after appearing before the Village Magistrates’ Court in Gaborone, Botswana, on Tuesday.
Evans Sivechere, a director of Diamond Migration (Pty) Ltd, was arrested on Sunday at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport following what Botswana police described as “intensive investigations.”
He is facing 11 counts of fraud.
Sivechere and his company allegedly defrauded 11 people of more than P240,000 between October last year and October 23 this year. Prosecutors say the victims were misled into believing Diamond Migration was processing overseas job placements and work permits on their behalf.
The applicants reportedly submitted all required documents and paid various fees, but later realised no jobs existed.
The alleged scam involved purported employment opportunities in Ireland, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Luxembourg, Finland, Poland and Greece.
Investigators say more charges could be added as the probe continues.
Sivechere is due back in court on December 2.
The Botswana Police Service has urged the public to be cautious when dealing with employment or recruitment agencies and to verify their legitimacy before making any payments.
