Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
A suspected serial house breaker, who has been terrorising Avonlea residents in Harare since May, was arrested on Monday.
Moses Damalekani, 33, of Muguta Extension, Epworth was arrested for 10 counts of unlawful entry into premises in aggravating circumstances.
In a statement, Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri who is the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) said during the period extending from May 2026 to July 2026, residents in Avonlea suburb, Harare spent sleepless nights when a surge in unlawful entry and theft cases was experienced.
This prompted the police to launch thorough investigations.
On July 27, 2026, detectives received information from reliable source that Damalekani was behind the commission of the crimes.
A manhunt was conducted leading to his arrest. “Thorough investigations were conducted and it was established that the accused would break windows using unknown objects to gain entry into various houses and stole valuables like cellphones and Laptops.
“He led the police to the recovery of various cellphones and laptops.
“The complainants positively identified their stolen property.
“Investigations are in progress with the view to recover some outstanding property and take the accused to court.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police extend its profound gratitude to members of the public for supplying vital information, which led to the arrest of the accused and the subsequent recovery of stolen property.
“In the same vein we implore members of the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to their nearest police station,” said Det-Insp Muteweri.
In a separate case Det-Insp Muteweri confirmed the conviction and sentencing of Ajida Twala alias ‘Magirazi’, 37, for vandalising irrigation pipes.
During the period 2 to 3 June 2026, Magirazi went to Vhukwe Farm, Mvurwi, vandalised four aluminium irrigation pipes connected to an irrigation scheme and hid them in the nearby bush. One of an alert employee observed him, became suscipicious of his movements and alerted the security guards.
A follow up of his movements led to the hiding place of the stolen aluminium pipes. Magirazi took to heels when he saw that he was being followed.
Detectives from CID Mashonaland Central were alerted and apprehended him.
On July 20, 2026 he appeared at Guruve Magistrate Court before regional Magistrate Timeone Makunde, with the State represented by Rutendo Ndibwe where he was convicted and sentenced to 10 years imprisonment.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police would like to commend the vigilance shown by members of the public in taking action against vandalism of agricultural assets. Police will continue to work with communities to protect agricultural assets,” said Det-Insp Muteweri.
