Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
TWO suspected thieves have been arrested on allegations of stealing various cellphones and laptops worth over US$17 000 before setting fire to one of the shops in Gweru.
The fire destroyed four shops during the inferno last week. National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident.
“On October 29, 2026, police in Gweru acted on a tip-off and arrested Tephilia Sapphire, aged 21 and Norman Mashindi, aged 34, in connection with a fire incident which occurred on October 23, 2026, at a building along 6th Street, Gweru CBD, where four shops were destroyed,” he said.
“Investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly stole cellphones and laptops valued at US$17 000 from one of the shops before setting the shop on fire.
“Police have since recovered cellphones and laptops valued at approximately US$10 000 from the suspects’ hotel room. The items were concealed in a black monarch bag, a travelling bag and a 50 kg sack.”
