Online Reporter
B-Metro Reporter
Twelve suspected car thieves have been rounded up in a major police sting targeting a syndicate believed to be behind a spate of vehicle thefts and robberies in Harare and surrounding areas.
The suspects, including a mix of unemployed drifters and middle-aged men from respectable suburbs, were arrested between June 10 and June 24 in connection with nine vehicle-related crimes.
Among those in handcuffs is Edwin Kudyarawanza (24), who allegedly pinched an Isuzu Redeo and US$40 after a boozy night at Monkey Shoulder Night Club in Chitungwiza on May 30. Police pounced on him on June 10 and recovered the vehicle.
In another dramatic case, Ackenarton Mvere (32) and Solomon Nyashanu (48) reportedly made off with a 30-tonne trailer parked in Tynwald back in January. Their luck ran out as detectives closed in this month.
The syndicate’s tactics ranged from sweet-talking lifts to outright robbery.
“Farai Sandura, Simbarashe Kariwo, Billy Willard Maseve and Tinashe Ndaonesa robbed a man of his Nissan Sylphy in Chitungwiza after pretending to be genuine passengers,” said police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi. “The complainant had offered them a lift from the CBD to Chitungwiza on May 29.”
Another duo, Richard Muchena (44) and Wiseman July (43), were targeting pirate taxis and drinkers at nightspots. They are facing three robbery charges linked to incidents in Kuwadzana, Harare CBD and Chitungwiza.
Also arrested were Macdonald Bopoto, Zenzo Churu, and Bride Mudyanadzo, whose alleged roles are under investigation.
Most suspects have since appeared in court as the law closes in on car crime syndicates.
In a stern warning, police said the crackdown is far from over.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that there is no going back in the fight against crime in the country,” said Commissioner Nyathi. “Motorists are urged to properly secure their vehicles at car parks whether at home, in the Central Business District or night clubs, shopping centres and other relevant places. Above all, drivers should not offer lifts to strangers in order to curb robbery cases involving vehicles.”
The net is closing in. Watch your keys.
