The Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services has warned the public against passport fraudsters and middle-men, commonly known as “Dobadobazi”, who are allegedly conning applicants out of large sums of money by promising to fast-track passport applications.
In a press release signed by National Public Relations Officer Inspector Pasqually Zulu, the department said it had received numerous complaints from applicants who had lost substantial amounts of money to individuals claiming to have connections within the immigration system.
According to the department, the fraudsters target desperate applicants both outside and inside passport processing centres, promising to have passports processed within days in exchange for cash.
Zulu said some suspects go as far as impersonating immigration officers or agents, claiming they can secure preferential treatment for applicants who pay them.
The department has reminded the public that applicants are not required to pay passport fees to any individual, including immigration staff.
“All official fees must be paid directly through designated banks located within passport processing centres. Payments made outside this system are not recognised,” Zulu said.
Immigration officials have urged applicants to exercise extreme caution and avoid anyone claiming to have the ability to fast-track passport applications for a fee.
The department has also encouraged victims of fraud to report such cases immediately. Complaints can be lodged at the Complaints Desk in all Passport Processing Centres or sent to complaints@immigration.gov.mw.
Officials said prompt reporting would assist in the investigation and prosecution of suspected fraudsters.
The department further warned that it would not tolerate fraud, corruption, impersonation or any other form of malpractice. Both public officers and members of the public found facilitating such activities would face prosecution.
The department reaffirmed its commitment to providing professional, transparent, fair and people-centred services while protecting Malawians seeking travel documents.
