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Sticky-fingered neighbours arrested
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Two Nkulumane youths have found themselves on the wrong side of the law after allegedly smashing a neighbour's car window and stealing just US$20 and two white reflectors - a petty crime now threatening serious consequences.
Brighton Shawn Moyo and Bhekimpilo Moyo, both 21, were hauled before Western Commonage Magistrate Archie Wochiwunga this week facing theft charges. Their case was remanded to July 1.
According to prosecutor Tafara Dzimbanhete, the daring - and rather unprofitable - break-in took place on June 14.
The two accused reportedly crept into Tawanda Hamadziripi's yard, shattered a window of his parked vehicle, and rifled through the car's interior. Their "loot"? A pair of white reflectors and a measly US$20 in cash.
But their criminal adventure ended almost as quickly as it began.
Hamadziripi caught them red-handed and raised the alarm, prompting the duo to flee the scene.
Unfortunately for the accused, their attempt to vanish into the neighbourhood didn't fool anyone - they live just a few houses away from the complainant.
With the suspects' identities well known, police had little trouble tracking them down and arresting them.
Although the total value of the stolen goods was only US$25, the damage to the vehicle and the act of breaking and entering elevate the seriousness of the charges.
Nothing was recovered, and the reflectors - designed to enhance visibility and safety - now represent the symbolic light exposing a foolish crime.
Legal experts say the case is a reminder that even petty theft can carry heavy penalties under Zimbabwean law, especially when it involves forced entry or property damage.
"Breaking into a vehicle constitutes a serious offence, regardless of the value of the stolen items," said one Bulawayo-based lawyer.
Now the two Moyos, perhaps thinking they'd scored easy money, are facing jail time - over reflectors and pocket change.
The court will decide their fate in the upcoming hearing.
Brighton Shawn Moyo and Bhekimpilo Moyo, both 21, were hauled before Western Commonage Magistrate Archie Wochiwunga this week facing theft charges. Their case was remanded to July 1.
According to prosecutor Tafara Dzimbanhete, the daring - and rather unprofitable - break-in took place on June 14.
The two accused reportedly crept into Tawanda Hamadziripi's yard, shattered a window of his parked vehicle, and rifled through the car's interior. Their "loot"? A pair of white reflectors and a measly US$20 in cash.
But their criminal adventure ended almost as quickly as it began.
Hamadziripi caught them red-handed and raised the alarm, prompting the duo to flee the scene.
Unfortunately for the accused, their attempt to vanish into the neighbourhood didn't fool anyone - they live just a few houses away from the complainant.
Although the total value of the stolen goods was only US$25, the damage to the vehicle and the act of breaking and entering elevate the seriousness of the charges.
Nothing was recovered, and the reflectors - designed to enhance visibility and safety - now represent the symbolic light exposing a foolish crime.
Legal experts say the case is a reminder that even petty theft can carry heavy penalties under Zimbabwean law, especially when it involves forced entry or property damage.
"Breaking into a vehicle constitutes a serious offence, regardless of the value of the stolen items," said one Bulawayo-based lawyer.
Now the two Moyos, perhaps thinking they'd scored easy money, are facing jail time - over reflectors and pocket change.
The court will decide their fate in the upcoming hearing.
Source - bmetro
