Midlands Correspondent
Police in Masvingo have reported a concerning rise in motor vehicle theft this year, with multiple incidents occurring recently.
Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa, the Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson, confirmed that two vehicles were stolen over the weekend of October 18, 2024, although both were later recovered.
“Cases of car theft are on the rise in Masvingo. We have a report of two vehicles that were stolen over the past few weeks though the police managed to recover them.
“On September 13, a motor vehicle was taken from Victoria Ranch and on September 20 another vehicle was stolen from the same area. Another one was stolen on October 7.” Said Inspector Dhewa,
Recent Incidents
- Incident on October 18, 2024:
Victim: Clayton Nyakanyanga (34)
- Vehicle: Black Honda Fit, valued at approximately US$4500.
- Details:
Nyakanyanga left his vehicle parked with the keys in the ignition while he entered a hardware store. Upon returning, he found the vehicle missing and reported it to the police. Investigations led to the identification of Tinashe Moyo (24) as a suspect seen driving the stolen vehicle.
- Incident on October 18, 2024:
Victim: Rashid Mutsvaire (35)
- Vehicle: Grey Toyota Sedan Sprinter, valued at US$3500.
- Details: Mutsvaire parked his vehicle near Chifamba shop in Mucheke and locked it before heading home. The next day, he discovered it missing. Police later arrested Ephraim Chivenge (19) and Nickson Chizengwe (24) after they were seen attempting to tow another vehicle using the stolen car.
Police Recommendations
Inspector Dhewa has urged car owners to implement security measures to prevent theft. Recommendations include:
- Installing car trackers to aid in recovery.
- Using alarms and ensuring vehicles are parked in locked garages to deter thieves.
“I would like to urge car owners to put security measures in place to avoid car theft or make it easier for police to track like putting car trackers, alarms and lockable garages. Trackers will make it easier for the police to track stolen vehicles whilst alarms and locked garages scare away thieves,” said Insp. Dhewa.
The police are actively investigating these incidents and encourage the community to remain vigilant.
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