Blessing Nduku &
Elinciya Witman
The Zimbabwe Republic Police(ZRP) in Midlands Province has confirmed the arrest of three suspects linked to a series of thefts and break-ins in Gweru between March and May of this year.
This operation has resulted in the recovery of property valued at US$48,000.
In a press release dated June 3, the ZRP Midlands identified the suspects as Tarisai Danha (35) and Benard Phiri (29), both residents of Plot 16 Harben Park, and Tinashe Gonde (41) from Ascot Infill.
According to the police, the trio is alleged to have committed multiple offenses, including theft of motor vehicles, unlawful entry into premises, and stock theft.
Their criminal activities spanned the Gweru Central Business District and various residential areas, including Mtapa, Mambo, Mkoba, Ascot, and South Downs, from March 17 to May 19, 2026.
Police outlined a clear modus operandi: the suspects would first steal a vehicle, which they then used to travel around the city to break into homes, grocery stores, and gas outlets.
After unloading the stolen goods at their hideout, they would strip the stolen vehicles of batteries and radios before abandoning them.
A significant quantity of stolen property has been recovered, including eight Honda Fit vehicles, twelve 48kg gas tanks, seven 5kg gas tanks, three refrigerators, three 55-inch televisions, three 200-watt solar panels, fifteen car batteries, seven radio speakers, fourteen blankets, two amplifiers, two car radios, and various groceries.
The total estimated value of the stolen property is US$48,380, of which goods worth US$43,780 have been retrieved.
Some items have already been identified and reclaimed by their rightful owners.
The suspects were taken into custody on May 28, 2026, and initially faced 24 counts.
On June 1, they appeared in court on four counts of unlawful entry and theft, for which each was convicted and sentenced to 58 months in prison.
They are scheduled to return to court soon to answer the remaining 20counts, which include theft of motor vehicles and additional unlawful entry charges.
Assistant Commissioner M. Matambo, speaking on behalf of the Officer Commanding Midlands Province, has appealed to potential victims to come forward.
“We encourage anyone who might have fallen victim to these daring criminals to visit the Criminal Investigation Department in Gweru and identify their stolen property,” he said.
He also urged residents to enhance their security measures and to continue sharing information with law enforcement.
“The police commend members of the public for their cooperation and encourage them to report any suspicious activity.
Criminals need to understand that the long arm of the law will eventually catch up with them, as our detectives remain vigilant
and prepared,” Matambo added.
