Amnesty beneficiary back in dock for theft

A 20-year-old man who was recently released under a presidential amnesty has been arrested in connection with unlawful entry and theft of a motor vehicle in Redcliff.

Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the arrest of Benjamin Manyangadze of Ruwa, who was apprehended on March 16 at Murombedzi Business Centre.

Mahoko said Manyangadze had only recently been released from Marondera Prison on March 2, after serving time for six counts of unlawful entry and theft.

"The Zimbabwe Republic Police arrested Benjamin Manyangadze (20) for unlawful entry into premises and theft of a motor vehicle," Mahoko said.

According to police, the incident occurred on March 11 at around 5pm in Redcliff, when the complainant, Tawanda Godfrey Magure, left his house unattended.

Unknown suspects allegedly broke into the house and stole car keys for a Peugeot vehicle, US$1 800 in cash, a Tecno cellphone and other valuables. The suspects then reportedly drove away in the Peugeot, registration number AGY 1389, which had been parked in the yard.

Police said detectives later tracked the stolen vehicle along the Chinhoyi–Chegutu Road five days after the theft. With assistance from officers at Murombedzi, the vehicle was intercepted at Murombedzi Business Centre, leading to the suspect's arrest.

The stolen vehicle and cellphone were recovered, while property valued at US$9 920 was taken. Authorities said US$7 500 worth of property has since been recovered.

Manyangadze is expected to appear in court facing charges of unlawful entry and motor vehicle theft, as defined under Sections 131 and 113 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.

Police investigations into the case are ongoing.