Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Writer
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has released names of seven suspects who were arrested and subsequently convicted for various serious crimes committed across the country during the week ending 26 June.
A majority are from Matabeleland region, and the crimes range from violent robbery, drug Possession and vandalism of ZETDC infrastructure. The sentences range from six to 10 years in prison.
In a statement, National Police Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the arrests were part of ongoing efforts to curb violent and economic crimes, adding that the suspects have all received custodial sentences.
Among those convicted is Milton Sebele (31), who was arrested for a violent robbery that occurred on 13th January 2025 at a homestead in Village B4, Hope Fountain.
“Milton Sebele (31) was arrested for robbery, which occurred at a homestead at Village B4, Hope Fountain on 13th January 2025. The accused person and three other suspects who are still at large, teamed up armed with machetes and forcibly gained entry into the complainant’s house,” said Comm Nyathi.
“They attacked him before stealing cash and cellphones. He was convicted and sentenced to eight years imprisonment.”
A 26-year-old man was also convicted for another robbery incident that took place on 22nd March 2025 in Eastlea, Beitbridge.
“Iasac Nhererea (26) was arrested for robbery, which occurred on 22 March 2025 in Eastlea, Beitbridge. The suspect and his accomplice, who is still at large, hired a taxi posing as genuine travelers.
“Along the way, they attacked the complainant and stole the taxi and valuables. He was convicted and sentenced to nine years imprisonment,” said Comm Nyathi.
Another robbery suspect, Ashton Benedict (26), was sentenced to eight years imprisonment following a conviction for a robbery committed on 19th March 2025 at Zimre Village Flats in Beitbridge.
“The accused attacked the complainant before stealing cash and a cellphone,” he said.
Prince Mutero (43) also received a nine-year sentence for a robbery committed in Amaveni, Kwekwe on 28th May 2025.
“The accused and his accomplices stole US$1 400 cash, which was in a parked motor vehicle after attacking the complainant. The accused person was convicted and sentenced to nine years imprisonment,” said the police.
In cases involving infrastructure vandalism, Peter Matengahama (46) was convicted under the Electricity Act [Chapter 13:19] for tampering with ZETDC infrastructure in Chipinge.
“The accused vandalized eight ZETDC transformers and stole copper windings in Chipinge on different occasions between May and June 2022. The accused was convicted and sentenced to ten years imprisonment,” Comm Nyathi said.
Meanwhile, Shingirai Cele (41) was jailed for six years for fraud involving the non-delivery of goods after receiving a large payment.
“The accused person misrepresented to the complainant that she had capacity to supply basic commodities namely, maize meal, sugar, sugar beans and sanitary pads.
“The complainant paid US$67 300 for the order but no delivery was made. The accused was convicted and sentenced to six years imprisonment,” said Comm Nyathi.
On drug-related charges, Obvious Ngwenya (50) was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment after being arrested for unlawful possession of dagga in Gwanda on 20th May 2025.
Comm Nyathi said the ZRP remains committed to curbing criminal activity and will continue working closely with the judiciary to ensure deterrent sentences are imposed.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police will continue to engage the judiciary to impose deterrent sentences to offenders,” he read.
