LONDON, UK – The Zimbabwean community in the UK is abuzz after Tinashe Mupanguri (34) and Blessed Chikwanda (29) were arrested in connection with an ATM card cloning operation that allegedly targeted unsuspecting shoppers across London.
Authorities say the pair worked together to install skimming devices on cash machines and card readers in busy areas, capturing card details and PINs which were later used to withdraw thousands of pounds. Police claim more than £45,000 was stolen before the operation was uncovered.
Immigration officers confirmed that both men are now facing criminal charges and possible deportation back to Zimbabwe once court proceedings conclude. The Metropolitan Police have urged anyone who used cash machines in certain high streets over the last three months to check their bank statements for suspicious transactions.
Neighbours in their South London apartment building expressed shock, with one resident saying, “They were always friendly and dressed well — you’d never think they were into something like this.”
💬 Should immigrants who commit crimes be immediately deported, or should they serve their full sentences in the UK first?
