By Cordilia Ncube
A 22-year-old security guard has been sentenced for stealing from his co-workers and housemates in a breach of trust that shocked his peers.
Benard Kabangure appeared before Magistrate Tembo at the Kwekwe Criminal Court, facing two counts of theft. He pleaded guilty to both charges, which arose from incidents that occurred on 22 April 2025.
According to court proceedings, Kabangure stole a Tecno phone worth US$100 from fellow security guard Cephas Masvoko. Masvoko had placed the phone under a pillow before going to sleep, only to discover it missing the following morning. Suspicious of Kabangure, Masvoko questioned his wife, who then produced the stolen phone, confirming his fears.
On the same night, Kabangure also stole a Vilon phone valued at US$80 from another co-worker and sold it in town. Fortunately, that phone was later recovered.
Both victims lived with Kabangure, and all three were employed as security guards, making the thefts a serious violation of professional and personal trust.
Magistrate Tembo sentenced Kabangure to seven months in prison. Two months were suspended on the condition that he does not commit any offence involving dishonesty within the next five years. The remaining five months were suspended on the condition that he completes 170 hours of community service at Dzivarasekwa 6 School.
