A 23-year-old, Tichaona Mundanga, from the Woodlands suburb, is facing a potential jail term after being apprehended by a vigilant resident while attempting to sell stolen steel poles from the River Valley gated community project in Woodlands Two.
The property developer is constructing the first gated community of its kind in Gweru city. However, some vandals and suspected thieves feel threatened by this initiative as it encroaches on their illegal activities in the suburb.
Mundanga is currently held at WhaWha prison, having been remanded in custody until Monday. He is the third suspect to be arrested and prosecuted for vandalizing this property.
Two other individuals were arrested recently by the company’s security personnel, who monitor the fence around the clock. Last week, Tichaona Musoka, a tenant at House Number 724 in Woodlands Phase One, was also detained after being tracked by security staff for allegedly cutting a portion of the fence to gain access to Phase Two. He was arrested alongside the homeowner, Melusi Ncube, who is accused of harboring criminals.
River Valley Group’s Security Officer, Mr. Derick Dube, stated that they will continue to collaborate with the police to take action against the vandals and thieves damaging the property. He also thanked residents for assisting with the arrest of suspected vandals and noted that the company will continue to offer cash rewards for such assistance.
Residents in Phase Two thanked River Valley Group CEO Amb Smelly Dube for the gated community, expressing that it will help protect them from thieves who have been entering the suburb to steal.
“The problem is that those who are cutting the fence are angry thieves, as they can no longer roam freely in the area at night for theft,” they said.
WHAT IS A GATED COMMUNITY
What is the concept of a gated community?
A gated community is a residential area that is enclosed by fences or walls, designed to restrict access to only residents and their guests. Communities such as the concept in Woodlands suburb, in Gweru, provide a blend of privacy, security, and a sense of exclusivity, making them an attractive option for many homeowners. It increases the value of their properties and gives them a sense of security.
