Housemaid in court over $14,000 heist

A 58-year-old housemaid has appeared at Harare Magistrates Court facing charges of theft after allegedly stealing luxury items worth US$14 000 from her employer's home in the Borrowdale suburb of Harare.

Alice Padzinza appeared before Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo. The complainant in the case is Radoslav Lliev Mlandenov, 45.

According to the State, on 31 July 2025, Mlandenov secured his bedroom by locking the door, closing all windows, and leaving his belongings intact before departing the country on a business trip. He entrusted the bedroom keys to Padzinza and instructed her not to enter the room during his absence.

The State alleges that Padzinza, while the complainant was away, unlocked and entered the bedroom, taking a pair of Louis Vuitton shoes, a Romain Jerome STEAMPUNK TITANIC DNA wristwatch, a wine stand, and a souvenir shield.

Upon returning from his business trip, Mlandenov discovered the items missing and, noting that Padzinza had previously entered the room without his consent, filed a police report.

Police investigations, including a scene-of-crime examination, revealed no signs of forced entry. The prosecution's case is that Padzinza was the only person in possession of the bedroom keys, giving her sole access to the room.

The total value of the stolen property is estimated at US$14 000, none of which has been recovered. Padzinza remains in custody as the matter proceeds through the courts.