Commissioner Paul Nyathi
By Dickson Bandera
A major police operation targeting motor vehicle theft and robbery has resulted in the arrest of 12 suspects linked to nine separate incidents across Harare and surrounding areas, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has announced.
In a press statement issued Tuesday, police said the suspects were apprehended between 10 and 24 June 2025 during a targeted crackdown on criminal syndicates operating in the capital.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is conducting a comprehensive operation to crack down on theft of motor vehicle and robbery cases in Harare and surrounding areas,” the statement read. “As a result, 12 suspects who were involved in nine cases of theft of motor vehicle and robbery were arrested.”
The suspects arrested are:
Edwin Kudyarawanza (24) of Mutumbi Village, Seke
Ackenarton Mvere (32) of Budiriro 5, Harare
Solomon Nyashanu (48) of Ushewekunze, Harare
Farai Sandura (37) of Highlands, Harare
Simbarashe Kariwo (38) of Belvedere West, Harare
Billy Willard Maseve (40) of Pendlands Flats, Marondera
Tinashe Ndaonesa (35) of no fixed abode
Richard Muchena (44) of Epworth, Harare
Wiseman July (43) of Kuwadzana 5, Harare
Macdonald Bopoto (37) of Overspill, Epworth, Harare
Zenzo Churu (39) of Zengeza 4, Chitungwiza
Bride Mudyanadzo (34) of Glen View 8, Harare
Authorities said the arrests were part of broader efforts to dismantle car theft rings that have been terrorising motorists in recent months. Police have not yet disclosed the full details of the recovered vehicles or other evidence seized during the operation.
The suspects are expected to appear in court soon as investigations continue.
Motor vehicle theft remains a serious concern in urban centres such as Harare, where organised criminal gangs have increasingly targeted parked vehicles and unsuspecting motorists.
For tips or more information, contact the ZRP National Complaints Desk at 0242 703631.
