Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Mutare Bureau
A DRAMATIC scene unfolded in Zimunya this week after a commuter omnibus worth US$10 000 was stolen while its owner was shopping, only to be recovered following a swift citizens’ arrest.
Manicaland police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, said the incident occurred on Tuesday at Piki Business Centre under Chief Zimunya.
“The complainant, 29-year-old Rolland Gwite of Gombakomba Village, parked his white Toyota Hiace high roof outside a shop and left the keys in the ignition while he quickly went inside.
“Unknown to him, a 26-year-old man, later identified as Justin Shorai of Hobhouse 2 in Mutare, was lurking nearby.
“Spotting the unattended vehicle, with its keys still in place, Shorai jumped in and sped away along the 12 Miles–Piki dust road,” said Ass Insp Chinyoka.
Realising that his kombi was being stolen, Gwite quickly phoned his colleagues stationed at 12 Miles Business Centre and alerted them to intercept the vehicle.
Responding swiftly, the residents acted together and blocked the road, forcing Shorai to a halt.
He was then apprehended by the vigilant community before being handed over to the police at ZRP Zimunya Post.
The suspect was later referred to CID Vehicle Theft Squad (VTS) Mutare for further investigations.
Ass Insp Chinyoka said the vehicle, valued at US$10 000, was recovered intact.
He praised the swift action taken by members of the community.
“The vigilance of residents in Zimunya played a crucial role in recovering the stolen vehicle and apprehending the suspect before he could vanish.
“We commend the unity and quick reaction that ensured justice was served,” he said.
However, Ass Insp Chinyoka also urged motorists to exercise extreme caution when leaving their vehicles unattended.
“We want to warn members of the public against leaving their vehicles with keys in the ignition.
“Such negligence invites criminal opportunists who are always on the lookout. In this case, the complainant was fortunate that the kombi was recovered, but the outcome could have been worse,” he cautioned.
