Online Reporter
Lesley Chikudo, [email protected]
A 24-YEAR-OLD serial thief who stole property worth about US$100 000 over seven months, has been sentenced to 15 years in jail.
Laga Dube of Upper Rangemore in Umguza District was convicted of 43 counts of theft by Western Commonage magistrate Mr Vakai Douglas Chikwekwe. Dube denied the charges but was found guilty after overwhelming evidence was presented in court.
The goods were stolen between August 2023 and March last year.
However, five years of Dube’s sentence were suspended on condition of good behaviour, meaning he will serve an effective 10-year jail term.
In passing the sentence, Mr Chikwekwe said Dube deserved a lengthy custodial sentence, which serves as a stern warning to potential offenders.
The prosecutor, Mr Milton Moyo, said Dube systematically targeted vehicles across Bulawayo, using various break-in methods to steal valuables, including mobile phones, laptops, cash, and vehicle accessories such as wheels.
“The thefts involved breaking into 43 separate motor vehicles, from which Dube stole various items. He used different techniques, including smashing windows and picking locks, to gain access,” said Mr Moyo.
Dube’s crime spree began in August 2023, with the first recorded theft involving property worth US$420, of which US$400 was later recovered. Between the second and 30th counts, he stole goods valued at US$83 590, though less than half was recovered.
The remaining 13 thefts, recorded from count 31 to 43, contributed significantly to the total stolen amount.
His crimes came to light in March 2024 when one of the victims reported a break-in, prompting investigations that eventually linked Dube to the series of thefts.
