Thieves Caught Wearing Victim’s Stolen Clothes Jailed After Mbare Break-In

Thieves Caught Wearing Victim’s Stolen Clothes Jailed After Mbare Break-In

Two Mbare men who were caught wearing stolen clothes have been jailed for six months after breaking into a woman’s home and stealing groceries, clothing, and household property worth about US$500.

The duo — Takudzwa Munetsi (27) and Brian Madakudya (29) — were convicted of unlawful entry by the Mbare Magistrate’s Court, which sentenced them to 12 months in prison, part of which was suspended under specific conditions.

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Break-In Discovered After Victim’s Return

According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe, the complainant secured her home on August 26, 2025, before leaving for her rural home. When she returned the next day, she found her house broken into, with forced doors and smashed windows.

The intruders had stolen an assortment of groceries, clothing, and household property.

Caught Wearing the Stolen Clothes

The case took an unexpected turn on October 2, 2025, when the victim spotted Madakudya wearing one of her stolen garments. She alerted the police, leading to his arrest. During interrogation, he implicated Munetsi, who was later arrested as well.

Only US$3 worth of goods were recovered from the pair, as most of the stolen property had already been disposed of.

Court Imposes Restitution Order

The court imposed a 12-month sentence, with three months suspended for five years on condition of good behavior and another three months suspended on condition that the duo restitutes US$497 to the complainant.

As a result, the two will serve an effective six-month jail term.

Court Warns Against Threats to Community Safety

In delivering judgment, the court stressed that unlawful entry and theft are serious offences that undermine community peace and security. It warned that offenders must face stern punishment to discourage similar crimes.