Online Reporter
Dalyn Chigwizura
A BULAWAYO man named Handsome Nkomo discovered that a flashy name is no match for the long arm of the law after his handbag-snatching mission ended in spectacular failure.
The 20-year-old, who has no fixed abode, has been sentenced to five months in prison after being caught red-handed shortly after stealing a woman’s handbag.
Nkomo appeared before Western Commonage Magistrate Jeconia Prince Ncube facing a theft charge.
He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to eight months behind bars.
Three months were suspended for three years on condition of good behaviour, leaving him with an effective five-month prison term.
The court heard that on 23 May 2026 at around 7PM, Kimberly Nkomo (27) had just stepped off a kombi when trouble came running her way.
According to prosecutor Mr Tafara Dzimbanhete, Handsome followed the unsuspecting woman before suddenly grabbing her handbag and sprinting off.
However, his freedom run was short-lived.
Kimberly immediately screamed for help, turning the street into an impromptu athletics track.
Passersby wasted no time and launched a chase after the fleeing suspect.
The court heard that members of the public eventually caught up with Nkomo and apprehended him before handing him over to the police.
A report was made, leading to his formal arrest.
In a twist that left the complainant smiling, all the stolen property worth US$338 was recovered.
