Vic Falls immigration officers in court for fraud after allegedly converting tourists' visa fees to personal use

Seven immigration officers; Kushinga Goremusandu, James Morowa (age not given), Promise Miti (37), Maboreke Enock Takura (29), Nonhlanhla Nyathi (39), Aron Mamvura (40) and Patience Chivi (31), who are stationed at Victoria Falls International Airport yesterday appeared before Victoria Falls resident magistrate, Lindiwe Maphosa, charged with fraud following separate arrests on Sunday.

The court heard that the 7 converted visa fees paid by tourists from different countries to their own use by recording lesser amounts in receipt books than the actual amount paid by British, American and Canadian visitors, who should pay $55, $30, and $75, respectively for single entry visas per person. The accused would then pocket the difference.

They alleged recorded the visitors as Americans, German and Japanese stating they had paid $30 per single entry visa, when each had paid full amounts applicable to their visa requirements. The seven denied the charges and were each granted $200 bail and will next appear in court on May 10. As  part of their bail conditions they were ordered to reside at their given addresses and not to interfere with witnesses.