Story by Wellington Makonese
A major police operation targeting a suspected criminal syndicate in Gweru has led to the arrest of three suspects and the recovery of stolen property valued at more than US$43 000.
The suspects, identified as Tarisai Danha, Benard Phiri and Tinashe Gonde, are alleged to have been behind a string of motor vehicle thefts, unlawful entry and stock theft cases committed in and around Gweru between March and May this year.
According to police, the trio allegedly stole vehicles, including Honda Fit cars, which they used to transport goods stolen from homes, shops and business premises before abandoning the vehicles after committing the offences.
The operation resulted in the recovery of eight Honda Fit vehicles and a range of stolen property, including gas tanks, refrigerators, television sets, solar panels, vehicle batteries and assorted groceries.
Police estimate the total value of stolen property at more than US$48 000, with recovered items worth over US$43 000. Some of the property has already been positively identified by its owners.
The suspects have appeared before the courts and were convicted on four counts of unlawful entry and theft. They are expected to return to court to answer to additional charges linked to other offences under investigation.
The arrests are being viewed as a significant breakthrough in efforts to dismantle organised criminal networks operating in the Midlands Province and recover stolen property for victims.
