Quartet arrested after spate of housebreakings in Masvingo

A four-member gang that unleashed a reign of terror in Masvingo through a spate of unlawful entry and theft has been arrested.

Criminal Investigations Department national spokesperson Detective Inspector Rachel Mutewere confirmed the development.

“We thank members of the public for supplying credible information, which led to the arrests of Peace Mandizvidza (32), Edward Sibanda (27), Tapiwa Tagwirei (27) and Kumbulani Sibanda (25),” she said.
Det Insp Mutewere said on 20 April, detectives from CID Masvingo received information linking the suspects to the crimes.

“Police launched an investigation leading to the arrest of Mandizvidza on 30 April, who then implicated his accomplices. Edward Sibanda was arrested in Zvishavane, while Tagwirei and Kumbulani Sibanda were picked up in Victoria Ranch,” she said.

The suspects targeted homes in Victoria Ranch and Runyararo West high-density suburbs between January and April this year.
Det Insp Mutewere said the suspects took advantage of unattended houses, broke in and stole household goods ranging from electrical gadgets, kitchenware and solar back-up systems.
“Police recovered two television sets, a deep freezer, an electric drill, 15 blankets, solar panels and two lithium batteries,” she said.

“In one case that occurred between 18 February and 1 March, the gang forced open a locked door and stole a television, fridge, microwave, two lithium batteries and two inverters. Using the same modus operandi, they broke into another house in February and got away with a television set, lithium battery and an inverter.”
Police are appealing for information that could lead to the arrest of Mukudzei Ashton Gwanyanya, who is on the run.
The suspects are set to appear at Masvingo Magistrates’ Court this Wednesday.