Burglar steals $200k worth of property

Munyaradzi Musiiwa Midlands Correspondent
POLICE in Kwekwe have arrested a notorious burglar who broke into over 50 houses and shops in and around Kwekwe during the period extending from February last year to last month and stole 23 plasma television sets and other electrical gadgets valued at about $200 000.
Midlands police spokesperson Inspector Joel Goko confirmed the arrest, saying Joseph Jacob Banda of Nhoko Village under Chief Njelele in Gokwe was arrested on 7 March this year.

“Police in Kwekwe have arrested a 46-year-old male adult who is facing 13 counts of unlawful entry and theft.
“The suspect was arrested last week Saturday (7 March) and was found in possession of property worth $194 400,” he said.

Inspector Goko said Banda broke into many houses and shops in and around Kwekwe stealing electrical gadgets.
“Allegations are that Banda had terrorised Kwekwe residents since February 2014 moving around committing crimes of unlawful entry and theft targeting houses and shops during the night.

“The suspect is alleged to have used a crowbar to open the doors and steal various goods ranging from plasma televisions, microwaves, home theatre sub hoofers to DVD players laptops, cellphones and radios,” he said.

Insp Goko said some of the stolen property was recovered by the police when Banda was arrested.
“Upon his arrest, 23 plasma television sets and several other electrical gadgets were recovered,” he said.

Meanwhile, Banda pleaded guilty to 13 counts of unlawful entry and theft when he appeared before Kwekwe magistrate, Mr Taurai Manuwere on Friday.

He was convicted and sentenced to 12 years in prison.
The State’s case was that Banda broke into several houses and shops in and around Kwekwe using different methods and stole television sets and several electrical gadgets which he would resell to unsuspecting customers.

Banda was arrested after police got a tip-off from members of the public. CID details claimed to be potential customers looking for a plasma television and were sold a stolen TV set by Banda.

He was immediately arrested.
Ms Fortune Mbizvo appeared for the State.