In a bizarre trend, self-proclaimed prophets, traditional healers, and pastors in Zimbabwe are claiming to send bees to punish individuals accused of wrongdoing. But experts are sounding the alarm – it’s all a scam designed to part desperate people from their hard-earned cash.

Videos on social media show individuals swarmed by bees, accused of theft or infidelity. But behind the scenes, it’s often a staged setup, with victims paying hefty sums for “justice” or “spiritual cleansing.” One man from Ruwa paid US$400 to a traditional healer, who promised to send bees to expose a thief. The bees never came, and the man lost both his money and reputation.

The Beekeepers Association of Zimbabwe and traditional healers’ associations have denounced the practice as fraudulent. “Bees can’t be sent to attack people,” says Chaipa Mutandwa, National Programmes Director for the Beekeepers Association. “This is all deception.” George Kandiero, head of ZINATHA, adds, “Most of the people shown surrounded by bees are paid actors, and the bees are drugged not to sting.”

Experts warn that some scammers use fake mystical items, sold in markets like Mbare to deceive clients. Bishop Cuthbert Nyaruvenda advises victims to report these incidents to the police, while Pastor Hazvinei Muchefa says, “It’s all staged to make money from people already in distress.”

As fake bee attacks continue to trend online, Zimbabweans are urged to remain vigilant and seek help from recognized authorities. Don’t fall for the buzz – report suspicious activity to the police or ZimParks.

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