Online Reporter
Danisa Masuku
A SERIAL thief, who terrorised Bulawayo suburbs, snatching household goods that included fridges, TVs and stoves, has been caged after a string of daring burglaries.Arise Moyo, who is part of a four-man gang facing 20 counts of unlawful entry and theft, went rogue in this case, pulling off a solo operation that left residents living in fear.
Moyo appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Itai Kagwere, charged with unlawful entry and theft. He pleaded not guilty, but the evidence against him was overwhelming, leading to his conviction.
He was sentenced to 24 months behind bars. Three months were suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour. A further six months were suspended on condition he pays restitution to his victims, leaving him to serve an effective 15-month sentence.
In sentencing, the magistrate acknowledged that Moyo was a first-time offender and showed some remorse.
However, the State argued that his crimes were aggravated by the fact that he sometimes used brute force, even breaking down doors to get to his loot.
With his sentencing, residents of Nketa and Emganwini can finally breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that the fridge fiend and TV terror, who had been plaguing their neighbourhoods is now behind bars.
The court heard that in March this year, on an unknown date, Moyo crept into a house in Nketa suburb. He smashed a window to gain entry and made off with a two-plate stove.
The very next day, he struck again, this time targeting a house in Emganwini suburb. There, he stole a plate and a blanket while the occupants were away.
But his most daring hit came on 25 July. Moyo arrived at another house in Nketa and found it locked up tight.
Undeterred, he scaled a precast wall, kicked down the main door, and stole a television set before slipping away unnoticed.
The relentless crime spree sparked panic among residents and frustration for victims who felt unsafe in their own homes.
Police launched a manhunt and eventually caught up with Moyo, bringing his burglary streak to a dramatic end.
