Car Stolen While Man Visits Friend

A 41-year-old man from Kwekwe lost his vehicle in a suspected case of theft during the early hours of Thursday morning while visiting a friend in the Mbizo suburb. The incident, which has sparked a police investigation, occurred at around 1 AM when the victim, Leonard Tapfuma of Mbizo Extension, parked his Honda Aria outside his friend’s house.

Midlands Provincial Police spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, confirmed the theft and appealed to the public for assistance in tracking down the stolen vehicle and apprehending the suspects.

“The police are appealing for information that might lead to the recovery of a stolen motor vehicle and the arrest of the culprits involved. The vehicle, a Honda Aria, was stolen on July 17 at about 1 AM in Mbizo, Kwekwe,” said Inspector Mahoko.

According to preliminary police reports, the man ,Mr. Tapfuma had driven to his friend’s house late at night and left his silver Honda Aria, registration number AFI 8874, parked just outside the gate. Believing it to be a quick visit, he entered the property without anticipating any trouble. However, when he later stepped outside intending to drive home, he discovered the vehicle had vanished without a trace.

“He parked his vehicle and went inside the yard. When he was about to leave, he discovered that the vehicle was no longer where he had left it,” said Inspector Mahoko.

The matter was immediately reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), who have since launched a manhunt for the suspected car thieves. As part of their investigation, police are urging members of the public who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area around the time of the incident to come forward.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is calling on anyone with information that may assist in the recovery of the vehicle or lead to the arrest of the suspects to approach the nearest police station or contact any officers on patrol,” said Inspector Mahoko.

Kwekwe Man Loses Car to Suspected Thieves During Late-Night Visit

The theft has left the local community shaken, especially residents of Mbizo, who say this is not the first such incident in recent months. Some have expressed concern over the growing trend of vehicle thefts, particularly during late hours, calling for increased police patrols in residential areas.

A neighbour who requested anonymity described the area as “usually quiet,” but admitted that cases of opportunistic thefts were becoming increasingly common. “We don’t usually hear of crimes happening at this hour, especially car thefts, but lately things are changing. Thieves are taking chances when people least expect it,” the resident said.

Another resident added that many people in the area lack secure parking or garages, making vehicles left on the roadside or in front of gates vulnerable to theft. “If you don’t have a locked gate or secure parking space, your car is at risk. These criminals are getting more daring,” the resident remarked.

Vehicle theft has become a growing concern in urban centers across Zimbabwe, with many cases going unresolved due to lack of surveillance infrastructure and limited resources for law enforcement. Stolen cars are often stripped for parts or smuggled across borders, making recovery difficult unless swift action is taken.

Inspector Mahoko urged motorists to exercise caution, especially when parking in unsecure areas or visiting others during the night. “We encourage all vehicle owners to remain vigilant, avoid leaving their cars unattended in open or poorly lit spaces, and to invest in anti-theft security devices,” he advised.

As of now, no arrests have been made and the Honda Aria remains missing. Police have circulated the vehicle’s registration details and description in hopes of a breakthrough.

Anyone with relevant information can contact the ZRP or report anonymously through community policing platforms. Authorities have assured the public that any leads provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

Source- Herald