TSHOLOTSHO GRANDPA (63) STEALS BROTHER IN LAW’S CELLPHONE AT FUNERAL WAKE

Stock theft in the area had become rampant and the trio’s arrest helped police crack some cases that were under investigation

B-Metro Reporter

A 63-YEAR-OLD man from Tsholotsho was arrested for stealing his brother-in-law’s cellphone at a funeral wake.

Field Nkiwane thought he could pocket a US$150 phone during mourning time and walk away clean. Instead, he is now facing 210 hours of community service after his scheme rang loudly all the way to the police.

The theft occurred on 30 October 2025. Nkiwane slipped the phone into his pocket while people were paying their last respects.

After reporting the matter, the victim got a surprise call from a man who had been asked by Nkiwane to unlock and flash the stolen phone.

That call turned into the thief’s undoing.

Police were tipped off and Nkiwane was promptly arrested. The cellphone was recovered, ending his brief career as a funeral-time hustler.

The Tsholotsho Magistrates Court sentenced Nkiwane to six months imprisonment, but the term was wholly suspended.

Instead, he will be doing 210 hours of community service.

The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) said it will not tolerate such behaviour.
“The NPAZ remains firm in enforcing accountability and prosecuting without fear or favour.”