Online Reporter
Trish Mukwazo
WHAT started as a simple favour turned into a nightmare for a Bulawayo woman, after her trusted taxi driver vanished with her car, only for it to resurface as a charred shell.
Talent Dube (39) of Nkulumane is at the centre of a sensational theft case after allegedly disappearing with his employer’s Mazda Demio, worth US$5 000, under the guise of helping a sick friend. The car was later found burnt beyond recognition.
“He said he was just taking his friend to Emganwini,” said a visibly emotional Getrude Nxumalo, the car owner and Dube’s employer. “Little did I know I’d never see my car in one piece again.”
According to prosecutor Ms Nomthandazo Mafu, the incident happened on October 15 last year, around 9AM. “The accused asked to use the vehicle and promised to return it the next day. He then became evasive and ignored all follow-ups,” she said. “Investigations led to the recovery of the motor vehicle, which was now a burnt wreckage.”
Appearing before Bulawayo Regional Magistrate Sibonginkosi Mnkandla, Dube stunned the court with his Defence, claiming he had been kidnapped, and that he escaped his captors, leaving the car behind.
He further told the court that he reported the kidnapping at a police station. But the prosecution isn’t buying it.
Neither is Nxumalo, who says her life has been turned upside down.
“I’ve lost everything,” said Nxumalo. “That car was my livelihood. Now I can’t sleep unless I drink. It’s not just theft — it’s betrayal.”
Though the two aren’t related, they were neighbours, which deepens the sting of betrayal. What started as a working relationship ended in accusations, courtrooms, and emotional wreckage.
Dube has pleaded not guilty to theft of trust property. His trial continues this Friday, 16 May.
B-Metro Verdict:
From trusted driver to torching suspect — this case has all the drama of a movie. As the court date looms, only time will tell if Dube’s fiery defence holds up or if justice goes full throttle.
