BUS PARTS HEIST, Police Nab Tshabalala, Iminyela Trio

Pharmacy manager, Marshall Mashaka (27), said he received a report from Magdalena Mavhunga, a dispensary assistant, that there had been a theft at the clinic.

B-Metro Reporter

THREE suspected thieves who allegedly stripped buses at a Kelvin North garage in Bulawayo have been arrested after a daring car parts heist that cost a local bus company nearly US$20 000.

Nhlanhla Ndebele (24) and Jethro Kapfumvuti (26), both of Tshabalala, and Mthabisi Ndebele (30) of Iminyela — are accused of sneaking into the bus company yard on different dates between June and August and stealing car parts from Toyota Quantums and Hiaces parked inside.

Police pounced on the trio after a tip-off on Monday, leading to the arrest of Nhlanhla who quickly spilled the beans on his partners in crime. Some stolen parts were recovered from their homes and tyre service providers, but property worth only US$1 600 was recovered out of the US$20 000 loot.

Bulawayo police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Thandekile Ndlovu confirmed the arrests and sent a warning to backyard dealers: “We strongly warn second-hand goods buyers to stop purchasing stolen property. You are not only committing a crime but also fuelling criminal activities in society.”