A storm is brewing around HezyMotors Logistics, a Milton Park–based vehicle import company owned and operated by Hazel Mafu, after growing evidence suggests it is at the centre of an elaborate car import scam that has defrauded unsuspecting Zimbabweans of thousands of US dollars.
The company, which has been aggressively advertising on social media platforms, is accused of taking large deposits from clients under the promise of delivering imported vehicles — which allegedly never arrive.
One distraught customer who spoke to ZiMetro News revealed they were conned out of US$3,700 after trusting HezyMotors’ glossy online adverts and paying a 50% deposit in May this year.
“They told me to pay duty and promised delivery within six weeks,” the victim said. “Now it’s the fifth month, and they keep saying the car is still in Tanzania. It’s all lies.”
When the customer began demanding answers, the company allegedly stopped responding altogether.
“If you try to call them, they ignore you. When you comment on their Facebook posts asking about your car, they delete your comment and block you,” the victim added.
Several whistleblowers have since alleged that HezyMotors Logistics, run by Hazel Mafu, uses fake social media accounts — including names such as Jack Demo, Bismak, and Catherine Penduka — to flood Facebook posts with false positive reviews and deflect criticism.
“They use ghost accounts to make it seem like satisfied customers are defending the company. It’s all fake — a PR smokescreen to keep scamming new clients,” said one whistleblower.
The operation reportedly gained traction because several social media influencers and self-styled celebrity promoters endorsed the company without verifying its legitimacy.
Victims pointed to personalities such as Admire, Mama Vee, and Clide Rice, who allegedly marketed the company online, encouraging buyers to trust HezyMotors.
“I only went ahead because I saw the company promoted by well-known figures,” another complainant said. “Now I realise I was fooled — they used influencers to make it look real.”
Following the public exposure of one case, at least six more victims have come forward with similar stories. Each claims to have paid deposits ranging between US$2,000 and US$5,000 — with not a single car delivered.
Some fear their vehicles were stripped for parts, while others believe they never existed at all.
Many of the victims say they feel powerless, unable to pursue legal action due to the high cost of lawyers and court fees. They are now appealing for law enforcement and consumer protection authorities to take urgent action before more people fall victim.
“They’re ruining lives,” said one victim angrily. “Hazel Mafu and her team must be investigated and stopped before they scam more families.”
Despite mounting complaints, HezyMotors Logistics continues to post flashy car ads on Facebook and other platforms, showcasing luxury vehicles and claiming to offer “reliable import services.”
But behind the polished marketing, dozens of customers say they’ve been left with nothing but false promises, deleted messages, and financial loss.
Concerned citizens are now calling for a full investigation into Hazel Mafu, her company’s operations, and the alleged network of promoters helping sustain the scam.
“This is organised fraud hiding behind social media glitz,” said one Harare resident. “The authorities need to step in — immediately.”
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