Johnson Progress

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of two individuals who attempted to sit for Ordinary Level papers on behalf of other candidates in Buhera and Bulawayo.

The suspects, Brighton Chinhenga (26) and Mavis Phiri (32), were apprehended in separate incidents during the ongoing ZIMSEC O Level examinations.

According to police reports, Chinhenga was caught sitting for the Mathematics Paper 1 examination at Mukondomi Secondary School in Buhera on October 13, 2025.

“The ZRP confirms the arrest of Brighton Chinhenga (26) for a case of impersonation which occurred at Mukondomi Secondary School in Buhera on 13/10/25,” the police statement read.

Chinhenga was attempting to sit for the exam on behalf of another candidate.

In a similar incident, Phiri was arrested at Masotsha High School in Magwegwe North, Bulawayo, on October 14, 2025, for attempting to sit for the Science Paper 1 examination on behalf of her sister.

The police confirmed that Phiri was caught red-handed and is currently facing charges of impersonation.

The ZIMSEC Act (Chapter 25:18) prescribes that anyone who impersonates another candidate is guilty of an offense and liable to a fine not exceeding level seven or imprisonment for a period not exceeding one year, or both. The proposed Zimbabwe School Examinations Council Amendment Bill seeks to impose stiffer penalties for examination malpractices, including prison sentences of up to five years for exam cheats.

The ZRP has warned potential offenders that examination impersonation will not be tolerated and urged candidates to adhere to the rules and regulations governing the examinations.

The arrests serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the integrity of the examination process.