BULAWAYO — Four individuals have been arrested and convicted in connection with a fraudulent scheme involving forged graduation invitation cards for the National University of Science and Technology (NUST). The Bulawayo Magistrates’ Court found Carol Tinotenda Makadzange (28), Ike Marcus Chinyuku (26), Rudo Joyce Kavande (27), and Mqondisi Mlilo (27) guilty of producing and distributing fake invitation cards designed to deceive parents and guardians attending the university’s graduation ceremony.
The scam came to light during NUST’s recent graduation celebrations, when organisers became suspicious of irregular activities linked to ticket distribution. Authorities moved quickly, and on 3 October 2025, the four suspects were apprehended after investigators uncovered compelling evidence of the scheme.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the group conspired to produce and sell counterfeit graduation invitation cards. These cards were intended to allow unauthorised individuals to gain access to the ceremony, undermining the integrity of the university’s event and defrauding unsuspecting attendees.
The investigation revealed that the operation was well organised. The court heard that the scheme began when Makadzange sold a fraudulent card to an undercover operative for US$10, an act that proved pivotal in securing a breakthrough in the case. Following this transaction, Makadzange cooperated with investigators, leading them to her co‑conspirators.
Police subsequently conducted searches of premises linked to the accused, uncovering a cache of incriminating evidence. Among the items seized were 197 forged graduation invitation cards, clearly prepared for sale, alongside substantial sums of cash: US$310 and ZAR 700. Investigators believe these amounts represented the proceeds of the scam.
Perhaps most damning of all, authorities confiscated a desktop computer used in the production of the fake cards. This discovery confirmed that the scheme went beyond simple possession — it involved active forgery and distribution on a scale that constituted organised criminal activity.
The prosecution presented the evidence in full at the Bulawayo Magistrates’ Court, detailing how the accused collaborated to manufacture, advertise, and distribute the forged invitation cards. Their actions were described as a deliberate attempt to profit from a significant academic event, exploiting families and undermining the solemnity of NUST’s graduation ceremony.
Four Arrested in Connection with NUST Graduation Invitation Card Fraud
In delivering judgement, the magistrate condemned the scam, warning of its damaging impact on both the university and the wider community. All four accused were ordered to pay a US$350 fine each, with a seven‑month prison sentence suspended should they comply. Failure to pay the fine will result in imprisonment. Additionally, the court handed down a three‑month imprisonment sentence, suspended for five years, as a deterrent against future misconduct.
All items seized during the investigation — including the counterfeit cards, cash, and computer equipment — were forfeited to the State in accordance with the law.
The NPAZ issued a stern warning to the public about the seriousness of the offence and the need to safeguard academic events from criminal interference. A spokesperson said, “This case serves as a reminder that academic milestones must be respected. Fraudulent activities of this nature not only harm individuals but also undermine the integrity of our institutions.”
The case has sent shockwaves through both the academic and public communities, raising awareness about the vulnerabilities of public events to fraudulent activity. NUST officials expressed relief that the matter had been uncovered before it caused greater damage to the university’s reputation and the trust of graduating students and their families.
“This kind of fraud strikes at the heart of our ceremonies and the hard work of our students,” said a university representative. “We welcome the swift action of the authorities and hope this sends a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated.”
For those involved, the consequences will extend beyond the courtroom. The convictions will remain a permanent record, potentially affecting future employment opportunities and damaging reputations. Legal experts note that this case could set an important precedent for similar incidents, signalling a firm stance against forgery and fraud in the academic sphere.
The NPAZ reiterated its commitment to pursuing offenders who seek to exploit significant milestones for financial gain. “Graduations are a time of honour and achievement,” the spokesperson added. “Those who tarnish these occasions through deception face the full weight of the law.”
As the court proceedings closed, the convicted four expressed regret, though there was little public sympathy given the deliberate and organised nature of their actions. The case now stands as a cautionary tale to others who might consider targeting formal events for personal gain.
For the wider public, the episode is a sobering reminder that vigilance is essential. Institutions, event organisers, and attendees alike must work together to protect the integrity of significant occasions from fraud and deception.
The NUST invitation card fraud case will be remembered not just for the criminals caught, but as a warning that even moments of celebration can be exploited if safeguards are not upheld.
Source- Nehandaradio
