Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
Herald Reporter
POLICE have confirmed the arrest and subsequent conviction of Anele Thabo Ncube (24) of Cowdray Park, Bulawayo, and Ayibongwe Mathema (23) of Sptitzkop Extension, Gwanda.
The two were sentenced to a combined 36 year jail term for carjacking.
In a statement, Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri said the matter occurred between March 2 and March 10 this year.
She alleged that, while in the company of Makhosi Ngwenya—who is still at large—the two men unleashed a reign of terror in Gwanda by robbing unsuspecting taxi drivers of their motor vehicles.
Det.-Insp Muteweri said the accused persons would approach taxi drivers posing as genuine passengers seeking to hire their vehicles.
After agreeing on the fare, the duo allegedly directed the drivers to certain destinations before robbing them and taking their vehicles.
“The accused robbed three victims of two Honda Fit and a Fun Cargo, which were all recovered,” Det.-Insp. Muteweri said.
She added that police investigations were intensified, leading to the arrest of the two and the recovery of the stolen motor vehicles.
On March 20, the accused appeared before the Gwanda Regional Magistrates Court before Magistrate Stembiso Ndebele, with Ngonidzashe Shumba representing the State. The court found them guilty and sentenced them accordingly.
“Anele Thabo Ncube was sentenced to 24 years’ imprisonment, while Ayibongwe Mathema was sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment,” the detective added.
Meanwhile, the ZRP is appealing to members of the public to provide information that could lead to the arrest of Makhosi Ngwenya.
The ZRP also commended the public for embracing community policing initiatives and for supplying information that resulted in the arrest of the accused and the recovery of stolen property.
