Children Aged 12 To 16 Arrested For US$10,000 Housebreaking Spree In Bulawayo

Bulawayo Children Aged 12-16 Arrested In US$10k Crime Spree

Police in Bulawayo have made a series of startling arrests. They have taken into custody a group of children and teenagers linked to a major crime wave. The suspects, aged between 12 and 16, are alleged to be behind a housebreaking spree involving property worth over US$10,000 (approx. R150,000).

The arrests follow a months-long investigation into a surge of burglaries that plagued city suburbs. Residents in Nkulumane and Tshabalala reported a frightening pattern of unlawful entries into their homes.

Twenty Cases Linked To Young Suspects

The Zimbabwe Republic Police announced a major development on 8 January 2026. In a statement, authorities detailed the extensive operation.

Police confirmed they are investigating 20 specific cases of unlawful entry and theft. These crimes all took place in Nkulumane, Bulawayo. The offences occurred between 15 October and 30 December 2025.

The value of stolen cash and household goods was significant. It was listed as US$8,948.00 (approx. R134,000), ZAR 13,400.00, and P2,350.00.

The police post directly linked the crimes to young individuals. It stated:

“Ten juveniles, aged between 12 and 16, have been linked to the cases and have since assisted the police in recovering the stolen property including, four cellphones and power banks.”

A separate news report by the ZBC, provided further details. It noted that 14 juveniles, with ages ranging from 11 to 17, had ultimately been arrested. The total estimated value of stolen goods involved was over US$10,000.

Detective Inspector Stanley Muya, Officer in Charge at CID Nkulumane, described the police action.

“There was an increase in house break-ins in Tshabalala and Nkulumane from the month of October to January. On January 4, we apprehended four juveniles and they led to the arrest of 10 more juveniles. They stole valuables worth over US$10,000,” Detective Inspector Muya said.

Community Reels From Allegations

The news that the alleged perpetrators are so young has deeply affected the community. The situation has been particularly distressing for the families of those arrested.

One local resident spoke of the tragedy of the situation, focusing on lost potential.

“It is painful to see these children wasting away their future like this,” a Bulawayo community member said.

A parent of one of the juveniles expressed shock and sorrow. They claimed no prior knowledge of the alleged activities.

“I did not know that my children were partaking in such criminal activities. It pains me to see them here,” a parent noted.

In light of the events, Bulawayo police issued urgent advice. Provincial Police Spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, addressed the public.

“As parents, let us monitor the activities of our children. I also want to encourage the community to safeguard their homes and please, let us not keep huge sums of money at home.”

The suspects remain in police custody as the legal process begins.