Serial housebreaker arrested in Bulawayo, 26 cases cleared

THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of a suspected serial housebreaker linked to a spate of unlawful entry and theft cases that have plagued several upmarket suburbs in Bulawayo since mid-2024.

Thulani Jere (43), of Pumula East, was apprehended following a tip-off that led detectives to his residence, bringing to an end what police described as a “sustained reign of terror” in suburbs including Hillside, Famona, Ilanda, Ascot and surrounding areas.

Jere is facing 26 counts of unlawful entry into premises and theft. Police say he worked in connivance with an accomplice, Xolani Moyo, who remains at large.

According to the ZRP, the suspect and his accomplice primarily targeted residential properties, lodges, guest houses and Airbnb-style accommodation, striking in the early hours of the morning while occupants were asleep.

“The suspect’s breaking spree, which began in July 2024, came to a halt on 24 April 2026 after CID Homicide Bulawayo detectives acted on received information linking him to multiple cases,” said Criminal Investigations Department national spokesperson Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri.

“The detectives swiftly followed up on the tip-off, leading to his arrest at his place of residence.”

Investigations have since linked Jere to a series of high-value thefts. On July 6, 2024, he allegedly broke into a house, ransacked it and stole US$4 000. In another incident on 15 August 2024, he reportedly made off with US$1 600 from a separate complainant.

“On December 2, 2024, the suspect forced entry into an apartment and stole a satchel containing US$7 224 and R3 000.

In a separate case at a local lodge, Jere broke into a room occupied by a sleeping guest and stole a wallet containing US$1 480 and a cellphone,” said Det Insp Muteweri

She said on January 21, 2026, at around 2:30am, the suspect broke into another apartment and stole US$2 000, R3 000 and personal documents.

Following his arrest, detectives recovered several tools believed to have been used in the commission of the crimes, including a drilling machine, a grinder and a lithium battery, among other items.

“The accused person is assisting police with investigations and is expected to appear in court this week,” said Det Insp Muteweri.

Meanwhile, police have launched a manhunt for Jere’s alleged accomplice, Xolani Moyo, and appealed to members of the public for information that may lead to his arrest.

The ZRP has also urged residents and property owners to enhance security at their premises to deter criminals.
“We continue to encourage members of the public to take proactive measures by reinforcing security systems and eliminating opportunities that allow criminals easy access to valuables,” said Det Insp Muteweri.

The arrest comes as police intensify efforts to curb property-related crimes in urban areas, with strong warning that offenders will be pursued relentlessly.