Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
TWO armed robbers who terrorised a couple in Seke and robbed them of cash and property worth thousands of United States dollars have each been sentenced to 12 years in prison, while four Harare men caught digging up underground copper cables have each received 10-year jail terms.
Confirming the convictions, Criminal Investigations Department (CID) national spokesperson, Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri, said the successful prosecutions demonstrate the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s commitment to combating violent crime and protecting public infrastructure.
In the first case, Phineas Goredema (24) and Simbarashe Mandaza (25) were convicted of armed robbery and sentenced to 12 years imprisonment each by the Chitungwiza Magistrates’ Court on July 2.
The matter was presided over by Magistrate Gloria Takundwa, while the State was represented by Ms Pamela Dzinduwa.
Detective Inspector Muteweri said the robbery occurred on February 4 this year at Rubatika Village under Chief Seke.
“The complainants, a married couple, had retired to bed after securing their home when the accused persons forcibly entered the house and proceeded to the bedroom. Armed with a pistol, the accused threatened the victims before ransacking the room and stealing US$2 803 cash, a laptop computer, a car radio and several cellphones before fleeing from the scene,” she said.
Following the robbery, the victims reported the matter to the police, prompting investigations by detectives.
“On February 27, detectives from CID Marondera acted on information received from members of the public linking the accused persons to the commission of the offence. The suspects were arrested and investigations led to the recovery of the complainants’ car radio,” said Det Insp Muteweri.
She said the conviction and sentencing of the duo should send a strong warning to would-be offenders that crime does not pay.
In a separate case, four Harare men — Silent Mushambi (21), Knowledge Choruma (23), Takunda Mukwambo (26) and Allen Chirenga (26) — were each sentenced to 10 years in prison for vandalising and stealing underground copper cables.
The quartet was convicted by Harare Magistrate Mr Feresi Chakanyuka on July 8, with the State represented by Ms Heather Mhlanga Muokoto.
Detective Inspector Muteweri said the accused persons were arrested on April 23 after detectives from the CID Minerals, Flora and Fauna Unit (MFFU) in Harare acted on a tip-off.
“The detectives caught the accused persons in the act of digging underground copper cables at the corner of Woodlands and Shavet roads in Waterfalls, Harare. Their arrest and subsequent conviction underline the importance of public cooperation in combating crimes that threaten essential infrastructure and economic development,” she said.
Detective Inspector Muteweri commended members of the public for continuing to provide information that assists police investigations and the prosecution of offenders.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police appreciates the continued support and cooperation from members of the public. Information supplied by citizens remains crucial in solving crimes, bringing offenders to justice and ensuring safer communities. Collective efforts remain critical in the fight against crime,” she said.
The convictions come as police continue to intensify operations against armed robbery syndicates and infrastructure vandals across the country.
