Free-spending betrays heist suspect

Police have arrested a 24-year-old man, Kelvin Chisandako, in connection with the theft of US$20,000 from a Safeguard Security Company cash-in-transit vehicle. The cash was stolen on October 16, 2024, after security guards transporting money from Beitbridge to Mutare offered a lift to two passengers, including Chisandako.

According to National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, Chisandako was apprehended at Mangwawo Village, Mawarire, in Mwenezi. Police received information that he was in possession of a large sum of cash, leading to his arrest. Upon interrogation, Chisandako admitted to stealing the money after boarding the cash-in-transit vehicle at Lutumba Business Centre, Beitbridge.

The arrest resulted in the recovery of US$600, R2,320, an empty cash box, and a Toyota Aqua vehicle, which Chisandako had reportedly purchased for US$9,800. Further investigations revealed that he had also used the stolen money to buy 30 roofing sheets, 35 bags of cement, seven window frames, two French doors, 15,000 bricks, a cellphone, and three men's suits.

Comm Nyathi expressed appreciation for public assistance in the case, stating, "The Zimbabwe Republic Police applauds the public for forwarding positive information which led to the arrest of the suspect. The public is urged to continue sharing information on criminal activities."

The Zimbabwe Republic Police has pledged to uphold the law without fear or favour and encourages citizens to report any suspicious activity through their National Complaints Desk at (024) 2703631, WhatsApp at 071 280 0197, or at the nearest police station.