Gwanda police raise alarm over spike in vehicle thefts

Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu

POLICE in Matabeleland South have raised concern over a spate of motor vehicle thefts in Gwanda, mainly targeting Honda Fit, Passo and Fun Cargo vehicles operating as taxis.

Matabeleland South provincial police spokesperson Inspector Chiratidzo Dube said between 5 March and 8 March 2026, three vehicles were stolen in the mining town.

“Gwanda town has recorded an increase in cases of theft of motor vehicles in particular local taxis.

The thieves use the modus operandi of pretending to be hiring the taxi targeting Honda Fit and Fun Cargo (old shape) model vehicles. On the dates from 5 March 2026 to 8 March 2026 three drivers fell victim and three vehicles were taken with only one having been recovered.

“In one of the incidents, two accused persons approached the complaint who was parked near famous bar, Gwanda and asked for a taxi to hire to Bina Mine.

They offered to pay $15 for the hire. One of the suspects sat at the front passenger seat whilst the other sat at the back behind the driver, they request the driver to stop along the way at a secluded area,” she said.

Insp Dube said the suspects attacked the victim, robbed him of cash, ordered the complainant to disembark and fled in the vehicle. In another incident, the suspects hired a taxi and along the way they asked the driver to stop, pretending to make some calls to their friends.

They then attacked the complainant and used a knife to stab the victim before pushing the driver out and fleeing in the vehicle.

Insp Dube said the thieves take advantage of night cover, poor lighting at parking bays, lack of perimeter security walls and durable gates.

She urged motorists without secure parking areas, durable locks and alarm systems to utilise designated night car parks.