MARONDERA, Jul. 21 (NewsDay Live)— Police have arrested five men allegedly linked to a string of motorcycle thefts across Mashonaland East after recovering five of the 11 stolen bikes.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said the breakthrough came on July 16 when members of the public in Rusape apprehended Philimon Manyoka, 29, while he was allegedly attempting to steal a motorcycle.
Police said information obtained from Manyoka led to the arrest of four alleged accomplices: Philip Mwedzi, 40, Enerst Mwedzi, 42, Zvikomborero Chinake, 34, and Brighton Tadyanemhandu, 29, also known as "Java."
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the five suspects were linked to 11 motorcycle theft cases reported between Jan. 5 and July 16 in Marondera, Dema, Wedza, Macheke and surrounding areas.
"The group is connected to 11 motorcycle thefts reported between January 5 and July 16 across Mashonaland East. So far, detectives have recovered five of the stolen motorcycles with an estimated combined value of US$8,500," Nyathi said.
The arrests follow a surge in motorcycle thefts across the province this year. Motorcycles are widely used for transport and business by commuters, vendors and delivery operators, making the thefts a significant blow to livelihoods.
Nyathi said all five suspects remain in police custody and are assisting with investigations, while efforts are continuing to recover the remaining six motorcycles.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities or information relating to stolen property to the nearest police station.
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"The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities or information on stolen property at any nearest police station," Nyathi said.
Police have not indicated when the suspects are expected to appear in court.
