Dete man jailed for breaking into animal rescue founder’s home

The conviction has been welcomed by the National Prosecuting Authority, which described the matter as a severe violation of trust and a grave crime against a vulnerable child.

Fairness Moyana in Hwange

A 35-year-old man from Dete in Hwange District has been sentenced to three years in prison after breaking into the home of Animal Rescue Trust founder, Paul De-Montille, and stealing property valued at over US$2 000.

Sebastin Nyoni, of Mtuya Village, was convicted of unlawful entry under Section 131(1), read with Section 131(2)(c) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23], by Hwange provincial magistrate Mrs Rumbidzai Kabasa-Bonzo.

Of the three-year sentence, six months were suspended on condition that Nyoni pays restitution to the complainant by 31 January 2026.

An additional six months, previously suspended in an unrelated case, were also brought into effect.

Prosecutor Ms Chido Gracious Tshuma told the court that between August 27 and 29, Nyoni forced open a closed window at De-Montille’s residence, bent the burglar bars, and gained entry.

He stole household items and electronic devices worth US$2 075, including a single mattress, laptop bag, two sheets, a kit bag, handbags, chargers, a GPS device, and a Nokia mobile phone.

Following a tip-off, police arrested Nyoni at his home, where a search led to the recovery of property worth US$335.
Nyoni admitted to the offence and assisted police in retrieving some of the stolen items.

However, the court emphasised the gravity of the crime and the significant value of the unrecovered property.