By Tendai Matunhu

Government has warned the public against impersonation in Government institutions, especially Law enforcement institutions advising public to communicate formally through Government structures as the law will deal with impersonators.

In a press statement released yesterday, Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr Misheck Sibanda said: “It has come to the attention of the Office of President and Cabinet (OPC), that there are individuals who approach Government institutions purporting to be carrying messages emanating from the same.

“A number of these individuals even claim to be representing or carrying messages from His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa in order to engage in what commonly is referred to as “name dropping.”

The statement goes on to say that law enforcements institutions are the main targets of these name dropping individuals, advising members of the public that Government officials, including His Excellency President Mnangagwa himself, communicate formally through Government structures and on matters which fall strictly within the confines of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.

“The public and civil servants are advised to report any persons purporting to be acting on behalf of His Excellency the President E.D Mnangagwa, or other Senior Public officials to the nearest Police Stations for swift action against such fraudsters.” further reads the statement.

According to the Criminal law (codification and reform) act chapter 6, titled Crimes against law enforcement and public administration section 179, impersonating a police officer, peace officer or public official is a crime.