By Cordilia Ncube
KWEKWE – Three suspects have been arrested in connection with a series of aggravated unlawful entries and theft that have been plaguing Kwekwe and its surrounding areas. The arrests, which took place on January 25, 2025, followed an intensive investigation by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP).
The suspects, identified as Ronald Masendu (25), Mathias Marange (21), also known as Chikule, of Mbizo 511A, both of Section 6 Mbizo, and Arthur Marima (36) of 2744, Section 12, Mbizo were apprehended by a special crime crack team in Kwekwe District around 0300 hours. The arrest led to the recovery of stolen property valued at approximately US$3,000, with some of the items already identified by their owners.
Midlands Province Police Spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, confirmed the arrests and stated that the recovered property has been linked to at least seven break-ins. Some of the stolen goods remain unclaimed, and authorities expect to recover more as investigations continue.
Among the recovered items are a Fotomate Projector (2019 model), a Silver A02 Samsung cellphone, a Black Huawei cellphone LDNL21, Black Stage Disco lights (Hybrid HSE 5, 4), a Tolsen toolbox, four 12-volt car batteries, an Ineco drill bit battery charger, a black and blue Macce mountain bike, a 100-watt floodlight, a set of 47-piece T-handle wrench screwdrivers, four electric breakers, a blue 5kg gas tank, and a Toyota car radio, among others.
Chief Superintendent Enock Chishiri, Officer Commanding Police for Kwekwe District, urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid purchasing goods from suspicious individuals.
“We encourage residents to secure their homes by locking doors and windows, especially at night, and to actively participate in community policing initiatives such as the Neighbourhood Watch program,” he said.
The suspects appeared before the Kwekwe Magistrates’ Court on 27 January 2025, and were remanded in custody until 3 February 2025, to allow further police investigations.
Meanwhile, ZRP has called on all residents who have experienced break-ins to visit the Mbizo Police Station to identify any recovered property.
“We also urge anyone with information regarding these or similar offenses in Kwekwe town and surrounding residential areas to come forward. This is an opportunity to bring criminals to justice and curb property-related crimes in our communities,” Inspector Mahoko added.
Inspector Mahoko commended both the police officers involved in the case and members of the public who assisted in the investigation, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in maintaining law and order.
