Ex-convict and a robber arrested after engaging in a stealing spree

Danisa Masuku

An ex-convict facing more than 19 counts of unlawful entry and theft and a burglar who broke into shops stealing more than 18 laptops have been arrested after members of the public gave police a tip-off.

A source close to investigations told B-Metro that Joel Zvinoera(28) is an ex-convict who was arrested for unlawful entry and theft in 2007 and sentenced to serve six years behind bars. He was lucky to be set free through a Presidential amnesty in 2009.

The source took this publication through the steps on how Joel masterminded and carried out the raids.

“One of the prominent places among the 17 business premises he pounced on was Mhlahlandlela Government complex, ZITF offices and Fidelity House.

Joe would go to the complex in the afternoon and go to the reception and would ask for certain information during that time he would be studying the office set up,” said the source.

The source further said: “Armed with information he would return after a day or two days during the night and would use either a screwdriver or an iron bar to open the door and gain entry into the offices before stealing. At Mhlahlandlela Government complex he used the same modus operandi and stole several laptops and cellphones.”

On another occasion the source said he stole several sandals and after that he ran out of luck as police got a tip-off after a man saw the man selling his stolen sandals.

“One of the victims noticed the sandals and yelled at him demanding to know where he got the sandals but he mumbled forcing the man to call out for help and police who were on patrol arrested him. He was arrested and quizzed leading him to reveal that he stole several computers and cellphones which were worth more than US$40 000,”said the source.

The source added: “Joel led detectives to where he sold some of the stolen items which included laptops, TVs, sandals and a fridge. Items which cost US$7 000 were recovered.”

The source said Mbongeni Tshuma (22) would climb on top of the roof and cut a hole before getting into the office.

“He stole more than 18 laptops and sold some in Harare. Detectives received a tip-off that he was selling laptops leading to his arrest. He led investigators to Harare where some of the laptops which are estimated to cost US$7300 were recovered,” said the source.

Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube confirmed the arrest of the pair and heaped praises on members of the public for supplying police with information that led to the arrest of Joel and Mbongeni.

“We would like to thank members of the public for supplying police with significant information that led to the arrest of the two. We would also like to advise members of the public who had their property stolen to come to Bulawayo Central Police Station and identify their property,” he said.