ZRP Debunks Viral ‘Wanted’ Notice for Wicknell Chivayo, Launches Investigation into Fake News
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has officially dismissed a viral social media statement claiming that controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo was wanted for questioning in connection with fraud. In a swift response, the police have labelled the document a fabrication and announced that an investigation is now underway to unmask the individuals behind the "false and misleading" information that spread rapidly across the nation.
Updated November 2, 2025
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The Viral Deception
The incident began on November 1, 2025, when a document designed to mimic an official ZRP internal memorandum went viral on platforms like WhatsApp and X (formerly Twitter). The statement, titled "ZRP PRESS STATEMENT," was dated and falsely attributed to Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the police's chief spokesperson.
The Forged Document’s Claims
The fake notice made serious allegations against the businessman, stating: "The Zimbabwe Republic Police is looking for Wicknell Munodaani Chivayo in connection with a fraud investigation and related criminal activities."
It further claimed that evidence indicated Chivayo had "knowingly and wilfully participated in a fraudulent scheme designed to obtain money and/or property through false representations," and concluded by alleging he had been requested to report to Harare Central Police Station for questioning. The professional appearance of the document led to its rapid and widespread circulation online.
ZRP's Swift Debunking
On November 2, 2025, the ZRP took to its official X account (@PoliceZimbabwe) to issue a formal rebuttal and set the record straight. The police unequivocally disowned the document and cautioned the public against the dangers of misinformation.
"Reference is made to a fake press statement that has gone viral on social media platforms," the ZRP stated. "The press statement did not originate from the official ZRP communication channels. Members of the public are therefore advised to disregard it as false and misleading."
Crucially, the police also confirmed that they were not treating the incident lightly and would pursue the creators of the fake news. "The ZRP is aware of individuals and groups responsible for circulating the fake press statement and appropriate investigations are underway," the official communication continued, urging citizens to rely only on verified police and media platforms for information.
Public Reaction: Skepticism and Satire
The ZRP's clarification sparked a firestorm of public reaction online, revealing a deep divide in public opinion and trust. The responses ranged from humor and mockery to outright skepticism and accusations of double standards.
Some users treated the situation with satire. "Dzaita kufonerwa kuti login izvezvi" ("He's being called to log in right now"), joked one user, implying that influential figures had intervened. Others, however, expressed profound distrust in the authorities. "Why would the public rely on information from a criminal organisation?" one user bluntly asked.
A significant portion of the reaction was rooted in cynicism, with many suggesting that even if the statement were real, no action would be taken due to Chivayo's perceived influence. "Call it fake even if it was real, you were not going to do anything because he’s feeding you," wrote another user, echoing a common sentiment that powerful individuals are above the law.
Context and Public Perception
The rapid spread of the fake notice is deeply rooted in public perception and the current media landscape. Wicknell Chivayo is a prominent and often controversial figure in Zimbabwe, known for his flamboyant lifestyle, high-profile government contracts (tenders), and associations with political elites. His public profile has frequently been the subject of both media scrutiny and public debate.
This context creates fertile ground for misinformation. In an environment where citizens are hungry for accountability from public figures, a statement—even a fake one—that suggests official action is being taken can be incredibly compelling. The incident highlights the challenges authorities face in combating fake news, especially when it involves well-known personalities and taps into existing public narratives about justice and influence in Zimbabwe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wicknell Chivayo
Wicknell Chivayo’s wealth primarily comes from his business interests in renewable energy, engineering, and power projects through his company, Intratrek Zimbabwe. His success, however, has been surrounded by controversy and public debate due to the number of lucrative government contracts he has secured and ongoing corruption allegations questioning the legitimacy of his fortune.
While he is not officially listed as a billionaire, Chivayo is widely regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s wealthiest businessmen. Estimates of his net worth vary, but he is believed to be worth hundreds of millions of US dollars, based on his assets, contracts, and visible display of wealth.
Wicknell Chivayo’s company, Intratrek Zimbabwe, has been awarded several major government contracts. The most notable include the US$172 million Gwanda Solar Project and the US$40 million Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) tender for electoral materials. Both projects have attracted media scrutiny and public criticism due to alleged irregularities and slow implementation.
Yes. Chivayo was convicted of theft in 2004 and later faced corruption charges in 2018 related to the Gwanda Solar Project. He was acquitted of those charges in March 2023. More recently, he has been implicated in allegations surrounding the ZEC US$40 million contract, which remains under investigation.
Chivayo is famous for his flamboyant lifestyle and unapologetic display of wealth. He often shares images and videos featuring luxury vehicles such as Rolls-Royces and Maybachs, lavish mansions, and expensive travels. In a country struggling with economic hardships, his ostentatious public image has stirred controversy and debate about ethics, privilege, and accountability.
Yes. In recent years, Wicknell Chivayo has become well-known for his lavish gift-giving. He has publicly donated luxury cars, cash, and other expensive gifts to church leaders, artists, influencers, and ZANU-PF supporters. These acts have earned him both praise from beneficiaries and criticism from those who question the source of his funds.
Chivayo is known to have close ties with senior government officials and President Emmerson Mnangagwa. He frequently attends national events, appears in official delegations, and has publicly expressed loyalty to the ruling party, ZANU-PF. This relationship has fueled speculation that his business success is partly due to political connections.
Wicknell Chivayo is married to Lucy “Lulu” Muteke, whom he wed in March 2025. His previous marriage to Sonja Madzikanda ended in divorce in 2024. His relationships and family life often attract public and media attention due to his high-profile lifestyle.
Wicknell Chivayo was born in November 1982, making him 42 years old as of 2025. Despite his relatively young age, he has already established himself as one of Zimbabwe’s most controversial and influential businessmen.
David (Solar Sales)