South African authorities are negotiating with their Botswana counterparts to extradite a high-profile fraud suspect, Evans Sivechere, whose alleged international job scam was heavily promoted by social media influencers, leaving a trail of victims across both nations.
Sivechere, better known online as Vecco Lupa, was arrested in Gaborone, Botswana, last month on multiple fraud charges. The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Gauteng has confirmed he is wanted on at least three separate cases of fraud in South Africa linked to the same scheme.
The Alleged Scheme and Influencer Backing
Sivechere operated Diamond Migration, a consultancy claiming to secure overseas jobs and work permits for countries including Hungary, Serbia, and Ireland. Complainants allege they paid substantial fees—in one case nearly R50,000—only to receive fake documents or discover no applications were ever submitted.
A critical element of the alleged scam was its promotion by well-known social media personalities. Influencers including Zimbabwean socialite **Tarisai “Madam Boss” Chikocho**, celebrity couples **Tytie and Kiki** and the **Nyathi family**, as well as Motswana musician **Vee Mampeezy**, publicly endorsed Diamond Migration to their millions of followers.
Victims told IOL that these endorsements provided a false sense of security and legitimacy. “I trusted Mama Vee so much,” said one complainant, Yvonne. “I would never have paid… without seeing familiar public figures promoting the agency.”
Police Action and Cross-Border Cooperation
Following Sivechere’s arrest in Botswana, South African victims came forward, prompting SAPS action. Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, Gauteng police spokesperson, confirmed cases were opened at the Midrand police station.
“The South African Police Service has made the police in Botswana aware that the suspect they arrested is also wanted in South Africa,” said Masondo. “Talks are ongoing to get the suspect back in South Africa to stand trial.”
Meanwhile, the Botswana Police Service has stated its investigation is ongoing, with additional charges likely.
Victims Demand Accountability Beyond Apologies
In the wake of the arrest, several implicated influencers have distanced themselves from Diamond Migration. Madam Boss issued a public apology, stating she would implement stricter vetting procedures. Others have silently deleted promotional content.
For many victims, these actions are insufficient. They are calling for legal accountability for influencers who promote fraudulent schemes.
“Madam Boss can just write an apology and move on with her life… I have lost my future in this scam,” said a victim named Idah. “What happens if someone promotes a programme where people are raped or killed? There has to be accountability.”
The case has ignited a broader debate about the responsibility of influencers and the vulnerability of individuals seeking economic opportunities abroad. As cross-border police talks continue, hundreds of victims await justice, hoping for the recovery of their lost funds and livelihoods.
