Suspect arrested for hardware store robbery in Masvingo
Police have arrested a 27-year-old man suspected of burgling a hardware store in Masvingo and stealing over US$18,000 worth of electronics. Tinashe Pokwane allegedly broke into Mussa Hardware Complex on January 14th, gaining entry through a partially open toilet window.
Once inside, the suspect reportedly ransacked the store and fled with 97 smartphones, 19 laptops, and other laptop accessories. Criminal Investigations Department (CID) spokesperson Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri confirmed the details of the burglary.
Acting on a tip last week, detectives discovered some of the stolen phones were being sold in Gweru’s central business district. After questioning the seller, police learned the primary suspect was now in Harare. Through investigative work, authorities lured Pokwane to Gweru where he was arrested.
A total of 54 phones, 19 laptops, and other devices valued at approximately $15,200 were recovered from the suspect. Inspector Muteweri thanked the public for providing information crucial to solving this case. She reiterated the importance of security measures like CCTV cameras to help prevent similar crimes.
