Police have arrested three men in connection with an armed robbery that took place on March 10 at Kirsty Coventry’s parents’ house in Harare.
The robbers stole cash and valuables worth over $90,000, including some of Coventry’s Olympic items.
Two brothers, John and Mike Nongwe, are set to appear in court on Friday, facing charges related to the burglary.
The brothers, armed with guns, held Coventry’s parents, Robert Edwin and Lyn Coventry, hostage by tying their hands and legs with shoelaces at their home in Harare’s Glen Lorne neighbourhood.
The robbers ransacked the house, stealing $15,000 in cash, jewellery worth $60,000, three hair dryers, Coventry’s Olympic swimsuits, travel bags, hearing aids valued at $5,000, and three hunting firearms.
Police have recovered some of the stolen items from the suspects, which will be presented as evidence in court.
More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/double-joy-for-kirsty-coventry-as-police-arrest-fiends-who-robbed-her-parents/">ZimLive</a>

Pindula News

Two brothers were arrested for robbing Kirsty Coventry's parents' house in Harare. They stole over $90,000 worth of cash and valuables, including some of Coventry's Olympic items. The brothers tied up Coventry's parents with shoelaces and stole money, jewelry, swimsuits, travel bags, and more. Police recovered some stolen items and the brothers will face charges in court. The robbery happened on March 10 and the criminals have been caught.

Police Arrest Two Brothers Over Armed Robbery At Kirsty Coventry’s Parents’ House

Thieves broke into a company in Kelvin West, Bulawayo, on Monday night and stole a Chubb safe containing US$10,569.
The safe was found the following day along a stream bank, with the cash still inside.
In a statement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said the thieves broke a window pane to gain entry into the company’s cash office.
The suspects loaded the Chubb safe onto a Jack trolley and made their escape. Police later tracked the trolley marks and recovered the safe and cash along a stream bank near a beer outlet in Tshabalala. The statement reads:
<blockquote>
The ZRP is investigating a case of unlawful entry into premises and theft which occurred at a company in Kelvin West, Bulawayo during the night on 06/01/25.
Unknown suspects broke a window pane before gaining entry into the company’s cash office where they stole US$10 569.00 cash which was in a Chubb safe. The suspects loaded the Chubb safe in a Jack trolley and went away.
On 07/01/25, Police in Bulawayo tracked the trolley marks and recovered the safe and US$10 569.00 along a stream bank near a beer outlet in Tshabalala. The suspects are on the run.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Thieves stole a safe with $10,569 from a company in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. The police found the safe the next day with the money still inside. The thieves broke a window to get in and used a trolley to carry the safe. The police followed the trolley marks and found the safe near a beer outlet. The suspects are still not caught. The police are investigating the case.

Police Recover Stolen Safe With US$10,569 Intact

Police in Bulawayo have advised the public to adopt target-hardening techniques to secure their homes and utilize the house-under-supervision scheme available at all police stations in the country.
The call was made by Acting Spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Bulawayo Province, Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, following the arrests of two men, John Chari (34) and Ntandoyenkosi Mpofu (24), both from Matshobane, Bulawayo, in connection with a case of unlawful entry and theft.
According to Msebele, sometime in August 2024, the complainant, a 57-year-old male from Matshobane, left his house to visit his rural home in Plumtree.
He allegedly left his property under the custody of a caretaker, who was responsible for checking the house twice a week but was not residing there. Said Msebele (via <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/adopt-target-hardening-techniques-police-urge-public/">Chronicle</a>):
<blockquote>
On 02 January 2025 at around 0300 hours, the two accused persons proceeded to the complainant’s place of residence and forcibly opened the backdoor and gained entry into the house.
Whilst in the house the accused persons stole various household properties which included TVs, gas cylinders, laptops, suitcases and speakers.
</blockquote>
Chari and Mpofu allegedly used an unknown motor vehicle to transport the stolen property, which they then divided among themselves and kept at their respective residences.
Msebele said on the same day, the police received information about the accused’s whereabouts. Acting on the tip-off, they arrested Chari, who during the interview implicated Mpofu. This led to the recovery of some of the stolen property at their residences.
The complainant was notified and positively identified his property. The total value of the stolen items was estimated at US$7,000, with US$5,800 worth of property recovered. She added:
<blockquote>
As police, we urge the community to use target hardening techniques in their homes by putting burglar bars and security screen doors.
People are advised to communicate with their neighbours when leaving, practising a watch my back I watch your back theory and also utilise the house under a supervision scheme which is available at all police stations.
</blockquote>
In criminology, target hardening refers to the strategies and measures implemented to make potential targets of crime more difficult to access or attack.
The goal is to reduce opportunities for crime by enhancing physical security features and increasing the perceived risk of detection for offenders.
This approach can deter property crimes such as burglary, theft, and vandalism by making it harder for criminals to succeed.
Examples of target hardening measures include installing better locks, security cameras, improved lighting, and alarm systems.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Police in Bulawayo are telling people to make their homes harder for thieves to enter. Two men were arrested for breaking into a man’s house and stealing things. The police say people should put burglar bars and strong doors on their homes to protect themselves. They also say people should talk to their neighbors when they leave their house to keep an eye out for each other. This can help stop crimes like stealing. Making it harder for thieves to get in can make them go somewhere else instead. Target hardening means making it tough for criminals to break into homes and steal things.

Police Recommend Target-Hardening Techniques For Homeowners

A 28-year-old man from Nyanga broke into a bar and guzzled three bottles of whisky, became intoxicated and passed out inside the shop.
The burglar, Dickson Simango, was found asleep in the bar by the owner in the morning, leading to his arrest.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said Simango was convicted and sentenced by the Nyanga Magistrates’ Court for unlawful entry charges. It said:
<blockquote>
On the 11th of April 2024 at around 0200hrs, the accused person gained entry into a bar Nyamhuka 2 in Nyanga by removing an asbestos sheet and a portion of the ceiling. He stole an assortment of food items and alcohol.
During the commission of the offence, he drank three 750ml bottles of whisky and ate 2 by 250 grams of tinned beef with a total value of $43,50.
He became intoxicated and passed out in the shop where he was found by the owner in the morning, leading to his arrest. The total value of the stolen items is USD266,80 and the recovered value is USD183,50.
</blockquote>
Simango was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment of which 3 months were suspended on condition of good behaviour.
Of the remaining 9 months one month was suspended on condition that the accused person restitutes a sum of US$83,30.
He will serve 8 months effectively.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Thief Drinks 3 Bottles Of Whisky At Crime Scene, Passes Out

Lochview suburb in Bulawayo is currently experiencing a high rate of thefts and break-ins, a report by <a href="https://cite.org.zw/crime-wave-grips-bulawayo-suburb/">CITE</a> claims.
The Macdonald Bricks Police Post has repeatedly received numerous reports of stolen cars, cellphones, laptops, furniture, and even livestock.
A Lochview resident Sthabilisile Chifamba who spoke to CITE’s Ndumiso Tshuma, said she is now afraid of drying her laundry out in the sun after her clothes were stolen on Wednesday last week at midday.
Residents have filed numerous complaints and reports, but they feel the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s (ZRP) response is slow and lacks urgency.
Another resident Sammuel Soko, said he caught a member of the neighbourhood watch in his house at night, trying to steal a car battery.
A single mother Jessica Ncube said that “four armed men stormed my house, ordered my family of four to lie down, and stole four cell phones, the living room TV, a laptop, and $300 cash from my purse.”
When contacted by CITE, Hillside police station Officer In Charge Chief Inspector Precious Simango acknowledged the “ongoing battle against crime” in the suburb.
Simango announced plans to establish a neighbourhood watch patrol unit in the suburb within the next three months.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Crime Wave Grips Bulawayo Suburb, Police Pledge To Establish Neighbourhood Watch Patrol Unit

Parents and guardians with children at <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Msengezi_High_School">Msengezi High School</a> are reportedly planning to confront the school’s authorities after a robber allegedly broke into the female students’ hostel on Monday and got away with laptops.
It is alleged that the robber entered the female students’ dormitory in the early hours of the morning and stole two laptops belonging to learners.
One of the learners who tried to get her laptop back was allegedly left injured in the scuffle.
A letter to parents and guardians signed by the School Head, Mr. G. Rambanepasi seen by <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/tempers-flare-after-robbers-break-into-msengezi-high-school-female-hostel/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> confirmed the incident. Part of the letter read:
<blockquote>
We had an unfortunate incident last night whereby a thief entered the A ‘Level girls Hostels around 2 AM. He took two laptops.
Police have been informed and investigations will be done soon. A brave Form 5 girl sustained an injury as she tried to negotiate for her laptop to be returned to her room.
</blockquote>
One parent who spoke to NewZimbabwe.com questioned the security measures in place at the school. Said the parent:
<blockquote>
These are female students for God’s sake. The school’s report does not even show what the matron, or responsible guard, did to protect our kids.
They ended up defending themselves and throughout that scuffle was the school guard asleep?
</blockquote>
However, the Primary and Secondary Education Ministry’s spokesperson, Taungana Ndoro said parents should be calm as some of the incidents are beyond the schools’ control. Said Ndoro:
<blockquote>
We are working closely with law enforcement agents to find a lasting solution to such regrettable incidents.
However, we urge parents to be calm and appreciate the fact that such matters are often way beyond the control of school authorities.
We have recorded incidents where some of our boarding schools’ security guards have been sometimes beaten up by armed robbers.
Some even force-marched to the Head’s house and then force-marched at gunpoint to the school safe.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Robbers Break Into Msengezi High School Female Hostel

Burglars stole US$20 from Hwange Government Secondary School after failing to break into the strong room where Zimbabwe School Examination Council (ZIMSEC) examination papers were kept.
It is thought that the burglars wanted to steal ZIMSEC exam papers.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the break-in that occurred between Sunday night and Monday morning.
ZIMSEC spokesperson told the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/burglars-fail-to-steal-zimsec-examination-papers-take-only-us20-in-room-full-of-cash-and-cellphones/">Chronicle</a> that nothing was taken as the burglars “failed to get through the Chubb door”.
ZRP spokesperson in Matabeleland North Province said they are treating the matter as a case of unlawful entry.
He appealed to members of the public to assist with information leading to the identification and arrest of suspects as investigations are underway. Said Inspector Banda:
<blockquote>
This is a case of unlawful entry that occurred between 30 and 31 October and the suspect is not known.
At 5 AM Thulani Dube, a general hand staff reported for duty and discovered that the doors to the bursar, storeroom, head and deputy head offices were open.
</blockquote>
Inspector Banda said Dube alerted school authorities and a report was made to the police who attended the scene.
The suspects reportedly used bolt cutters to break padlocks and gain entry into the administration block.
They then broke down doors to the bursar’s office, head’s office and deputy head’s office.
They could not break through the chubb door into the strong room and left unnoticed.
However, they took only US$20 from the bursar’s office where they left an undisclosed amount of money untouched.
There were also computers, laptops and cellphone handsets in the office but they did not take any of them, raising suspicion that they were targeting examination material.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Burglars Fail To Find ZIMSEC Exam Papers, Take Only US$20 From Room Full Of Cash, Laptops And Cellphones

A female police officer was arrested on Thursday last week for allegedly working in cahoots with burglars who broke into a Nedbank Bulawayo branch where more than US$270 000 and R2 million were stolen.
The <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/police-officer-in-nedbank-robbery-nabbed/">Chronicle</a> reported sources close to investigations as saying that Detective Constable Sinikiwe Ndlovu (38) of CID Stores in Bulawayo assisted the thieves in committing the crime.
It is alleged that Ndlovu received a Honda Fit vehicle for assisting the nine-member gang and was in constant communication with them before, during and after the burglary.
Investigators suspect that Ndlovu may have guided the gang on how to successfully carry out the burglary.
Bank employees discovered the break-in when they reported for duty on 28 August 2023.
ZRP spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi on Monday confirmed Detective Constable Ndlovu’s arrest. He said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms that Detective Constable Sinikiwe Ndlovu has been arrested on allegations of defeating and obstructing the course of justice.
This is in connection with the unlawful entry into premises and theft case at Nedbank Zimbabwe in Bulawayo and the arrest of two suspects Lovemore Gambiza (45) and Elias Mudenda (46).
The police are still pursuing the other suspects who are on the run. Members of the public with information should contact the National Complaints desk on (0242) 703631 or WhatsApp 0712 800 197.
</blockquote>
Gambiza and Mudenda were arrested days after the robbery and they implicated seven others who are on the run.
The seven suspects are Agrippa Mloyi of Nkulumane suburb in Bulawayo, Dingilizwe Mloyi, Nqobile Mloyi, Sipho Tshuma, Bhekani Mlilo, and two others known only as Samamo and George.
Agrippa Mloyi and Bhekani Mlilo are reported specialists in breaking safes and skipped bail in 2018.
Upon her arrest, Detective Constable Ndlovu allegedly confessed that she received a silver-coloured Honda Fit vehicle, registration number AEY4681 from Agrippa Mloyi the night before the burglary.
However, she later claimed she had bought the vehicle for US$4 700 from Mloyi who she said was a childhood friend.
It is further alleged that Detective Constable Ndlovu could not produce an agreement of sale or the vehicle’s registration book.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Female Police Officer Linked To Nedbank Heist Arrested

Three suspected armed robbers blasted a Mukuru money transfer booth that was in a hardware shop at Maboleni Business Centre, Lower Gweru and stole more than US$27 000 plus over R66 000.
Police confirmed the robbery incident which occurred on Saturday, 22 April via a post on their Twitter page. Reads the post:
<blockquote>
Police in Gweru are investigating circumstances surrounding a case of unlawful entry into premises and theft which occurred on 22/04/23 at Maboleni Business Centre, Lower Gweru.
Three unknown suspects armed with unidentified weapons blasted a Mukuru money transfer booth which was located in a hardware shop, before going away with US$27 087.00 and ZAR 66 300.00.
Police recovered one unused Megamite EMEX 70 at the scene. Anyone with information to report at any nearest Police Station.
</blockquote>
There has been a spike in robbery cases targeting Mukuru in the past few years.
In 2021, a Mukuru Money Transfer agency in Chegutu was robbed by four armed robbers who got away with US$17 609 and R3 500.
In another robbery incident in 2022, armed robbers raided a cash-in-transit vehicle at Mukuru Money Transfer Agency in Bulawayo before stealing US$100 000 and over R500 000.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mukuru Booth In Lower Gweru Robbed Of US$27 000, R66 000

Unknown suspects broke into the farmhouse Montana Vista Farm in Kezi, Matobo District, Matabeleland South Province and went away with several guns, Viceroy brandy, cash and household goods.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the incident occurred between 19 and 21 April this year. He said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP is appealing for information that may assist in the investigation of a case of unlawful entry into premises and theft which occurred between 19/04/23 and 21/04/23 at Montana Vista Farm, Kezi.
Unknown suspects broke into the farmhouse during the complainant’s absence before stealing, a 303 rifle, two shotgun rifles, an air gun, 25x 12-bore rounds, 15 x 303 rounds, 50 x 2,2 rifle rounds, two cellphones, ZWL$ 2 000, ZAR 3000 and US$300 cash as well as 3 x 750 ml Viceroy brandy, among other household goods.
Anyone with information to report at any nearest Police Station.
</blockquote>
Burglars often target homes and businesses that they perceive as vulnerable, such as those with poor lighting, weak or inadequate locks, or no security systems.
Measures that can be put in place to combat burglary include installing security cameras and alarms, reinforcing doors and windows, and ensuring that outdoor areas are well-lit.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Burglars Steal Guns, Viceroy From Farm

Villagers apprehended four suspected armed robbers who pounced on Obva Clinic in Mashonaland West Province at midnight on 6 April 2023.
The four suspects were subsequently arrested by the police after their plan failed.
The suspects were identified as Tinashe Mangwiro(32) from Unit L, Chitungwiza, Forgive Mupanganyemba(38) from Kuwadzana 4, Samuel Makazhu(48) from Kuwadzana 7 and Raphael Magunda(21) from Musona Village under Chief Magonde in Kenzamba.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson in Mashonaland Province Inspector Margaret Chitove confirmed the arrest of the suspects.
She said the suspects were armed when they pounced at Obva Clinic on 6 April at around midnight.
The suspects arrived at the clinic and broke the main gate and proceeded to the mothers’ shelter and threatened to kill the security guard who was posted there.
Two members of the gang reportedly held the security guard hostage in another room.
The other two suspects broke the solar batteries cabinet and disconnected the entire clinic’s wiring system.
Sister Denya, a nurse at the clinic called out for help after she noticed the sudden power cut alerting villagers who came to the rescue.
The villagers intercepted the gang which was carrying one solar battery approximately 300 metres from the crime scene.
Sensing danger, the suspects dumped the battery and jumped into their getaway car, a Toyota Wish.
But the villagers gave chase and eventually caught up with them along the road leading to Kenzamba where their gateaway car had had a breakdown.
Three of the suspects fled from the car but they were later apprehended by the villagers while they sought transport to flee the area.
The matter was reported to the police and the solar battery worth US$1 000 was recovered.
Speaking to <a href="https://zbcnews.co.zw/2023/04/08/four-armed-robbers-nabbed/">ZBC News</a>, Inspector Chitove urged members of the public to work together with the police and help catch criminals. She said:
<blockquote>
We would like to applaud members of the public who worked earnestly and showed resilience and unity of purpose in the apprehension of suspects.
We also urge members of the public to join hands with the police to arrest criminals.
</blockquote>
According to a <a href="https://www.safeguard.co.zw/safeguard-crime-report-april-2022/">Safeguard Crime Report</a> for April 2022, crime increased by 12%, with burglaries increasing by 33%.
The report said a majority of crime incidents occurred between 00:00 and 04:00.
It also revealed that a number of successful break-ins were prevented by the presence of an alert guardian and the sounding of an alarm.
<h2>Tips to Prevent Burglary</h2>
<ul>
<li>Make your home look occupied, and make it difficult to break in.</li>
<li>Lock all outside doors and windows before you leave the house or go to bed.</li>
<li>Keep your garage door closed and locked.</li>
<li>Don’t allow daily deliveries of mail, newspapers or flyers to build up while you are away.</li>
<li>Arrange with the Post Office to hold your mail, or arrange for a friend or neighbor to take them regularly.</li>
<li>Arrange for your lawn to be mowed if you are going away for an extended time.</li>
<li>Check your locks on doors and windows and replace them with secure devices as necessary.</li>
<li>Pushbutton locks on doorknobs are easy for burglars to open. Install deadbolt locks on all your outside doors.</li>
<li>Sliding glass doors are vulnerable. Special locks are available for better security.</li>
<li>Other windows may need better locks. Check with a locksmith or hardware store for alternatives.</li>
<li>Don’t share your vacation plans on social media.</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Villagers Apprehend Four Solar Battery Thieves

A Mutare-based 65-year-old African Apostolic Church bishop, Charles Tekeshe, allegedly broke into a congregant’s house and stole US$10 800 that was stashed under a bed.
Tekeshe recently appeared before Mutare magistrate, Ivy Musavengana charged with unlawful entry into premises as defined in Section 131(2) (e) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23.
Tekeshe was granted bail and remanded to 27 March for trial.
Prosecuting, Sandra Mlambo said Tekeshe broke into Hedsen Mabhutso’s house through the window and stole US$10 800. Said Mlambo:
<blockquote>
On May 18, 2021, and in Dangamvura, Mutare, Mr. Mabhutso locked his children in the house and left for his workplace in the company of his wife.
He secured all his property, including the US$10 800 which was stashed under the bed in his bedroom.
At around 10 AM, Tekeshe was seen arriving at Mr Mabhutso’s house by the complainant’s eight-year-old son. Tekeshe was holding a blue box in his hands.
Tekeshe inquired whether the complainant and his wife were present through the window and was told they were away.
</blockquote>
Tekeshe allegedly ordered the minor child to open the kitchen window.
The child complied and Tekeshe went into the house through the window. Said Mlambo:
<blockquote>
While inside the house, Tekeshe proceeded to Mr Mabhutso’s bedroom where he stole US$10 800 before going out through the same window.
</blockquote>
Tekeshe allegedly ordered the minor to wipe off his feet and fingerprints using a cloth before he left the house.
Mabhutso returned home on the same day around 7 PM and his son narrated what had happened during his absence.
He went to his bedroom and discovered that his money had been stolen.
Mabhutso reported the matter at ZRP Dangamvura and Tekeshe was arrested. Nothing was recovered.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Bishop Breaks Into Congregant's House, Steals US$10 800

Two suspected armed robbers sustained severe burns after the owner of a house they intended to break into doused them with sulphuric acid.
The suspects, Tatenda Bhebhe (23) of Mbizo 8 in Kwekwe and Mollen Banda (27) were part of a four-member gang that was breaking into houses and stealing cash and property in Zhombe, Midlands Province.
The two were later sold out by the burns caused by the sulphuric acid and were arrested as they sought medical attention.
Bhebhe was arrested by the police while admitted at Kadoma General Hospital while Banda was arrested while admitted at Gweru General Hospital.
After their arrest, the two implicated their accomplices, Tafadzwa Moyo (21) and Learnmore Masaga (22) both of Village Kesani under Chief Gwesela in Zhombe.
ZRP spokesperson in Midlands Province Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko told the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/burglars-burnt-with-sulphuric-acid-arrested-while-seeking-medical-attention/">Chronicle</a> the gang has been linked to 5 other cases ranging from malicious damage of property to robbery.
He said the injured suspects were doused with sulphuric acid as they tried to break down a door to Brighton Dlodlo’s homestead on 20 February. Said Insp Mahoko:
<blockquote>
On 20 February 2023 around 3 AM, Dlodlo of Village Ndabenkulu Chief Gwesela in Zhombe, was sleeping when he was awakened by the noise of the gang trying to break through the door to gain entrance into the house.
</blockquote>
Inspector Mahoko said Dlodlo took a bottle containing sulphuric acid and sprinkled it on the suspects’ faces through a hole they had created in the door resulting in them running away in pain.
On 25 February police received information that Bhebhe was admitted at Kadoma Hospital and they and arrested him.
Banda was later arrested while admitted at Gweru General Hospital.
The other two suspects were arrested at their homesteads after being implicated by the two.
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Homeowner Burns Burglars With Sulphuric Acid

Three suspected armed robbers broke into a house in Ascot Extension, Gweru on Thursday and stole a vehicle and other goods before raping two girls.
ZRP spokesperson in Midlands Province, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko on Friday confirmed the incident. <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local-news/article/200006983/robbers-storm-gweru-home-rape-2-teenagers">Southern Eye</a> quoted him as saying:
<blockquote>
Police confirm investigating a rape and other robbery cases where three unknown persons pounced on a family of four in Ascot suburb and robbed them of cash and cellphones.
Two children were also raped before the robbers drove away in the family’s Nissan Caravan vehicle.
The Nissan Caravan had various hardware store tools for sale on February 2.
</blockquote>
According to Insp Mahoko, the suspects who were armed with an axe broke down a door and gained entry into the house.
They demanded cash before threatening the occupants with death. Said Mahoko:
<blockquote>
They tied the husband and wife with twine and covered them with blankets while demanding cash.
The trio ransacked the house and took seven cellphones, two laptops, US$900, hardware tools and a Nissan Caravan vehicle, all valued at US$15 000.
</blockquote>

Robbers Break Into Gweru Home, Rape Two Teenagers

Suspected burglars last week stole R24 000 from Dikili Primary School in Tsholotsho that was meant for examination fees.
The suspects broke into the school’s strongroom and took the box that contained the money and later dumped it at the school’s sporting fields.
The box was later discovered by the School Development Committee (SDC) chairperson Rodger Madebe Mpofu. It had R540.
Mpofu is also an overnight security guard at the nearby Dikili Secondary School which was also robbed last term.
The Chronicle quoted a police source as saying the robbery could be an inside job as there was no forced entry into the headmaster’s office where the strongroom is. Said the source:
<blockquote>
The theft was discovered in the morning by the receipting teacher. However, what is strange is that there was no forced entry into the office.
The main door was intact including that of the strongroom which suggests that it’s clearly an inside job. It’s someone who had the keys or the duplicate keys.
</blockquote>
Detectives at Tsholotsho Police Station picked up the headmaster, a Mr Ngwenya and his deputy, one Ms Ncube for questioning but later released them after spending a night in police cells.
Pupils at the school may fail to sit for the Grade Seven examinations unless the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) allows the pupils to write the exams without paying the fees.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson in Matabeleland North Province Inspector Glory Banda confirmed the burglary and said investigations are in progress.
Provincial Education Director for Matabeleland North Jabulani Mpofu said they will engage ZIMSEC to ensure the pupils are not disadvantaged.
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/r24-000-school-exam-fees-stolen/">Chronicle</a>

R24 000 ZIMSEC Exam Fees Stolen From School

A Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) officer stationed at Infantry 4.1 Brigade has appeared in court on allegations of stealing cerevita and some biscuits from a shop.
Milton Mutumbi (30) appeared this week before Masvingo Magistrate Ritaiswe Silaigwana charged with theft.
Mutumbi and his alleged accomplice, Wilson Kambeva (36) of Dambiro street Mucheke A, are jointly charged for the crimes.
Prosecuting, Nixon Chamisa, said on 10 February 2022, at around 5 AM, Mutumbi and Kambeva broke into the complainant McDonald Tava’s shop at Mucheke Rank through a window.
The duo allegedly took 20×500g boxes of cerevita porridge, 2×250g loose biscuits, 10×500g biscuits and a box of cornflakes and hid them at a secluded place.
The court further heard that one Tanaka Mufamba who was at the working place on night duty witnessed the burglary.
The accused persons allegedly shared the loot and gave some to Mufamba so that he would not reveal the offence.
Mufamba was arrested by the police after receiving a tip-off. Mufamba then exposed the other two.
Police recovered 1 box of cerevita, 2×500g biscuits and one box of cornflakes from Mutumbi.
Silaigwana remanded the matter to 22 June 22 2022 for continuation of trial.
<h4>More: <a href="https://masvingomirror.com/zna-soldier-in-court-for-stealing-cerevita/">The Mirror</a></h4>

Soldier In Court For Stealing Cerevita, Cornflakes

A well-known self-proclaimed prophet in Masvingo was arrested for allegedly committing a spate of burglaries from May to 17 July 2021 in Victoria Ranch and surrounding areas.
Kokerai Jiri (37) popularly knows as Madzibaba Jiri in Victoria Ranch and Runyararo West and his two accomplices, Luckmore Chingovo (30) and Stephen Mupereki (30) were arrested on Saturday in Victoria Ranch following a tip-off.
The police recovered stolen property worth over US$15 000 following the arrest of the trio. Jiri, Chingovo and Mupereki are being held at Chikato Police Station.
The stolen goods include six solar panels, five Television sets, beds, a refrigerator, gas tanks, blankets, wheelbarrows and water tanks.
Officer Commanding Masvingo Commissioner Simangaliso Dube, Assistant Commissioner Florence Marume, Dhewa and several senior officers inspected the stolen wares at Chikato Police Station.
Insp Dhewa said the police is inviting people with recorded stolen property to come to Chikato Police Station to identify their belongings. He said:
<blockquote>We have recovered household goods and stuff worth over US$10 000. Some of the stolen property is being recovered in Victoria Ranch. So far 15 cases of theft have been solved and we are expecting to solve more.</blockquote>
We will invite those with stolen property to come and identify their wares. We are still identifying some of the households that were robbed but had not reported the cases. The Police is vigilant against crime.
<h4>More: <a href="https://masvingomirror.com/masvingo-prophet-steals-property-worth-us15-000/">Masvingo Mirror</a></h4>

Masvingo Prophet Steals Property Worth US$15 000

A Rusape man who had formed a house-breaking syndicate with his two wives was finally arrested last week after stealing valuables worth over $500 000.
Bright Makwindi (33) of Vengere was nabbed together with his wives — Memory Mandindo (29) and Luisa Chikono (29) — after breaking into several houses and getting away with electrical gadgets, food, and other valuables.
The total value of the property recovered was $502 517. Some of the goods were in their possession, while some were recovered from buyers.
Manicaland provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luxson Chananda, said by Wednesday, the suspects had managed to clear 11 cases of unlawful entry. He said:
<blockquote>During the period extending from March 2021 to date, there was an increase in unlawful entry cases in Rusape and detectives launched patrols in residential areas
On April 15, detectives who were on surveillance in Mabvazuwa saw Makwindi enquiring from a child about the whereabouts of the occupants of a certain house.
Detectives confronted him and searched his satchel. They recovered housebreaking equipment.
They escorted him to his place of residence, but he managed to escape along the way since he was not handcuffed. He hid in a sewage drain but was later arrested at Mandindo’s house.
Searches led to the recovery of several items which Mandindo failed to account for.</blockquote>
Insp Chananda said when Makwindi and Mandindo were taken for interrogation, they implicated Chikono.
He said the trio had a well-polished modus operandi. Makwindi would always send his wives to the targeted houses on the pretext of looking for water.
If no one was present, they would call their husband to come and break into the house.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/hubby-wives-housebreaking-syndicate-busted/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Manica Post</a></h4>

Husband, Wives Housebreaking Syndicate Busted

Given several incidents of robberies at homes in recent months, here are some guidelines on securing your home to reduce robberies:
<h2>Target Hardening</h2>
Making your property harder for an offender to access.
<ul>
<li>Upgrading the locks on your doors, windows, sheds and outbuildings</li>
<li>Fitting strong doors that cannot be kicked in easily.</li>
<li>Using secure passwords to prevent criminals from hacking your online accounts.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Target Removal</h2>
Ensuring that a potential target is out of view.
<ul>
<li>Not leaving items on view through your windows – i.e. laptops, phones, keys, bags.</li>
<li>Putting your vehicle in the garage if you have one and not leaving valuables on display.</li>
<li>Being cautious about what you post online as it may be used to identify or locate you offline.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Reducing the Means</h2>
Removing items that may help commit an offence.
<ul>
<li>Not leaving tools and ladders in the garden.</li>
<li>Keeping wheelie bins out of reach, as they may be a climbing aid or help transport items.</li>
</ul>
 
<h2>Reducing the Payoff</h2>
Reducing the profit the criminal can make from the offence.
<ul>
<li>Security marking your property (engraving) ,</li>
<li>Marking your property in such a way that others will not want to buy from the thief.</li>
<li>Not buying property you believe or suspect to be stolen.</li>
</ul>
 
<h2>Access Control</h2>
Looking at measures that will control access to a location, a person or object.
<ul>
<li>Locking your doors, security gates and windows to both your house and your vehicle</li>
<li>Ensuring that fencing, hedges, walls and other boundary treatments are in a good state of repair.</li>
<li>Putting a security system in place – beams, access control, cameras.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Surveillance</h2>
Improving surveillance around your home to deter criminals.
<ul>
<li>Removing high hedges/fences at the front of your home that allows an offender to work unseen</li>
<li>Consider adding good clear image CCTV to your home.</li>
<li>Neighbour’s are usually the first ones to spot unwanted elements on your property, stay on good terms with yours.</li>
</ul>
 
<h2>Environmental Change</h2>
<ul>
<li>Ensuring your property and wider community looks cared for.</li>
<li>Reporting issues such broken street lights to the relevant authority (municipality).</li>
<li>Attending your local ratepayers meetings so issues concerning the area can be raised and addressed.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Rule Setting</h2>
Changing our habits by setting rules and positioning signage in appropriate locations.
<ul>
<li>Introducing a rule that the last person entering/leaving should lock the door and remove the keys.</li>
<li>Last person leaving or retiring for the night to check all windows are closed and the alarm is set.</li>
<li> Make sure the security company boards are clearly on display on your fence and house.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Increase the chance of being caught</h2>
Increasing the likelihood that an offender will be caught to prevent crime from occurring.
<ul>
<li>Making use of dusk to dawn security lighting is in place and in working order.</li>
<li>Using good quality CCTV and alarm systems.</li>
<li>Upgrading security to delay an offender, meaning they have to spend more time to gain access (beams).</li>
</ul>
<h2>Deflecting Offenders</h2>
Deterring an offender or deflecting their intention.
<ul>
<li>Using timer switches to make our homes look occupied if vacant after the hours of darkness.</li>
<li>Using your home alarm system when you are home and out.</li>
<li>Make your home look more secure than the one down the road.</li>
</ul>

TIPS: How To Secure Your Home From Robbers

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said it received a report of a suspected unlawful entry into premises at the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) Mt Pleasant offices on 15 March 2021.
In a statement, national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said investigations conducted by the Criminal Investigations Department who include scene of crime experts, the circumstances and appearance of surroundings suggest that no breaking in occurred.
Asst Comm Nyathi added that nothing was stolen from the offices and there was no indication of any tampering with objects or other items was observed.
Nyathi said the office curtain rail moved due to wear and tear thereby displacing a ceiling panel which raised suspicions that there was a break-in at the offices. He said:
<blockquote>Nothing was stolen or any form of tampering with objects or other items was observed. Indications are that the office curtain rail moved due to wear and tear thereby displacing a ceiling panel.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police wish to thank the public and the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission staff for the cooperation exhibited during the course of investigations.</blockquote>

There Was No Break-in At ZACC Offices - Police

A suspected serial thief fell from the ceiling of a building in Gwanda town centre on Tuesday morning and was saved from mob justice by police as he tried to flee from the scene.
The suspect was arrested at a place commonly known as Emabhizeni, which is part of partitioned shops that share one roof, along 4th Avenue.
He is suspected to have entered the building at night and broke the ceiling to access other shops before stealing property.
A supermarket employee who witnessed the whole incident said the suspect attempted to flee after he was spotted in the shop. The eyewitness said:
<blockquote>I was just arriving for work when I heard sounds at the back. I made a follow up as it was still quiet with most people not having reported to work yet. I saw the thief trying to jump from the ceiling.
I managed to climb into the ceiling and chased after him and he fell into a shop next door to us commonly known as China Shop. Security details managed to catch him before he fled from the scene.</blockquote>
Matabeleland South provincial police spokesperson Inspector Loveness Mangena confirmed the arrest, saying the man was assisting police with investigations on other cases he is allegedly linked to around the town.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/business-comes-to-standstill-as-serial-thief-falls-from-ceiling/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Chronicle</a></h4>

Serial Thief Falls From Shop Ceiling

A Masvingo teenager was sentenced to 5 years in prison after breaking into 14 homes in the space of 7 days.
The 19-year-old Peacemaker Mambudu was convicted on his guilty plea to 14 counts of burglary he committed from 25 to 31 August this year.
Mambudu would move from house to house in the same neighbourhood in the absence of the owners during the daytime.
The crimes were all committed in Victoria Range suburb and the teenager would rob the homes of his victims in broad daylight while they were at work. He used an unknown object to break windows to gain entry into the houses.
He was finally caught by members of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) as he attempted another break-in.
Police recovered property valued at ZW$2 054 which included cell phones, amplifiers and radios.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/teenage-burglar-in-14-home-break-ins-in-one-week/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Teenage Thief Breaks Into 14 Houses In 7 Days

There was a break-in at the Ministry of Health and Child Care headquarters offices in Harare at the weekend with speculation rife that it could be an inside job.
The break-in occurred while the Health Minister, Obadiah Moyo was away in Geneva, Switzerland, on World Health Organisation (WHO) business.
According to The Herald’s sources, offices belonging to high-ranking officials in the Ministry were ransacked. Said the sources:
<blockquote>There was a break-in at the ministry (of Health and Child Care) head office in which four offices were targeted.
The perpetrators might have gained entry using fire escape routes and it looks they were familiar with the office’s geography.
The office of the permanent secretary, finance director, chief accountant and one for a senior director in policy formulation were targeted.
Some documents went missing and some fuel coupons were stolen from these offices. There has been a seismic power wrangle going on with some old members at the ministry not happy with the change of the administration.</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the burglary. Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said:
<blockquote>I can confirm that as the ZRP we are investigating a case of unlawful entry and theft done at the Ministry of Health and Child Care head office where several offices were ransacked and documents were stolen
As the police, we are seized with the matter and investigations are currently underway and we will give you the findings in the not so distant future.</blockquote>
President Emmerson Mnangagwa recently appointed Dr Agnes Mahomva as the new permanent secretary in the Ministry in place of Dr Gerald Gwinji.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/break-in-at-ministry-of-health/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Herald</a></h4>

Burglars Break Into, Ransack Ministry Of Health Offices

Speaking to Southern Eye, MDC spokesperson, Oscar Ncube confirmed that burglars broke into Welshman Ncube’s offices in Bulawayo over the weekend and stole a Nikon camera.
Said Ncube:
<blockquote>I can confirm a break-in on Saturday at the party offices and a Nikon camera was stolen. We do not know who the culprit is at the moment as a lot of people have access to the offices.</blockquote>
Sources told Southern Eye that a police report was made by MDC staff on Sunday afternoon after they discovered a break-in, leading to the arrest of Desire Nyandoro. Nyandoro was remanded to August 23 after being charged with unlawful entry and theft when he appeared before the Bulawayo Magistrates’ Court yesterday.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2018/08/break-in-at-mdc-leaders-offices/">NewsDay</a>

Kirsty Coventry Latest News

Latest Jobs