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CIO security aide pleads guilty to unlawful entry and theft
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A Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) security aide has admitted to three counts of unlawful entry and theft after breaking into Home Affairs ministry offices in Harare.
George Marufu (32) appeared before Harare magistrate Rufaro Panavanhu last week, where he pleaded guilty to charges of unlawful entry in aggravating circumstances. He is set to be sentenced today.
According to prosecutor Dzidzai Josiah, Marufu's first offence occurred on October 17, 2023, when he broke into the Home Affairs offices after security officer Martin Jimu had secured the premises.
Marufu gained access to the 13th floor of the Mukwati Building using an elevator, where he entered Emmanuel Kahute's office and stole an HP ProBook laptop, a laptop power pack, and a pair of sheets.
The theft was discovered on October 23 when Jimu reported the matter to the police.
Marufu was arrested on January 10, 2024. On the day of his arrest, he attempted to access the 20th floor of the Mukwati Building, presenting his CIO and national identity cards at the reception. However, he failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for his presence on the floor and fled when challenged. He was apprehended by members of the public.
Police investigations led to the recovery of the stolen HP ProBook laptop from Kudzai Mutswangwa, who had purchased it from Marufu for US$80.
Marufu was also linked to a separate incident in November 2023. On this occasion, he entered the 20th floor of the same building by opening a window, walking along the balcony, and entering George Marunga's office.
He stole two Infinity laptops and three HP laptops before escaping. The theft was discovered the next day, prompting another police report.
Marufu remains in custody, awaiting sentencing for his crimes. The case has raised concerns about security measures at government offices and the conduct of officials entrusted with safeguarding sensitive premises.
Authorities have not commented on whether additional security measures will be implemented in the wake of these incidents.
George Marufu (32) appeared before Harare magistrate Rufaro Panavanhu last week, where he pleaded guilty to charges of unlawful entry in aggravating circumstances. He is set to be sentenced today.
According to prosecutor Dzidzai Josiah, Marufu's first offence occurred on October 17, 2023, when he broke into the Home Affairs offices after security officer Martin Jimu had secured the premises.
Marufu gained access to the 13th floor of the Mukwati Building using an elevator, where he entered Emmanuel Kahute's office and stole an HP ProBook laptop, a laptop power pack, and a pair of sheets.
The theft was discovered on October 23 when Jimu reported the matter to the police.
Police investigations led to the recovery of the stolen HP ProBook laptop from Kudzai Mutswangwa, who had purchased it from Marufu for US$80.
Marufu was also linked to a separate incident in November 2023. On this occasion, he entered the 20th floor of the same building by opening a window, walking along the balcony, and entering George Marunga's office.
He stole two Infinity laptops and three HP laptops before escaping. The theft was discovered the next day, prompting another police report.
Marufu remains in custody, awaiting sentencing for his crimes. The case has raised concerns about security measures at government offices and the conduct of officials entrusted with safeguarding sensitive premises.
Authorities have not commented on whether additional security measures will be implemented in the wake of these incidents.
Source - newsday
