Usiphatheleni loses $10 000

AN usiphatheleni (illegal forex dealer) allegedly lost more than $10 000 to thieves who broke into his car outside his flat in Bulawayo's Paddonhurst suburb.

Benard Moyo is said to have parked his vehicle, went into his apartment and when he returned moments later, his money had vanished.

Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Precious Simango confirmed the incident.

She urged members of the public to desist from carrying large sums of money.

Insp Simango said Moyo, who is an illegal forex dealer, told the police that he left the money in his car while he rushed into his flat, only to return to find it stolen.

"He claimed that he left the money in the car while he rushed into a flat where he stays in Paddornhurst suburb.

"He reported that he lost $10 000 and R3 000," she said.

Insp Simango urged members of the public to avoid keeping large sums of money in their homes, saying this puts them at risk of being robbed.

She said in the past few months, the city has recorded an increase in cases of criminals breaking into vehicles and homes.

"We want to urge members of the public to secure their properties as we've recorded an increase in the number of break-ins in homes and theft from vehicles," said Insp Simango.

She said residents should avoid placing their cellphones near windows as the gadgets are targeted by thieves.

"People should be security conscious.

"We are receiving reports of people having their properties stolen even at church and funerals," Insp Simango said.

She urged members of the public to avoid buying property on the streets, saying they might end up buying stolen property which can land them in trouble.