In a case of criminal audacity leading to swift justice, a 28-year-old man from Highwood Phase 2 in Concession, Zimbabwe, has been convicted and sentenced for unlawful entry and theft. The man's downfall came when he was spotted publicly wearing a distinctive jacket he had stolen from his victim.
The Bold Theft and Brazen Discovery
Marlvin Chakanyuka carried out the theft in August 2025 while the 46-year-old victim was away from his room. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) of Zimbabwe, Chakanyuka stole several items, including a stonewash jean jacket, a pair of jean trousers, sneakers, a red and black Bluetooth speaker, and a blue and white blanket. The total value of the stolen goods was USD85.
The story took a dramatic turn on 25 August 2025, at about 1:00 p.m.. The victim was walking through his neighbourhood when he saw Chakanyuka boldly wearing the very same stonewash jacket that had been taken from him. Upon being confronted by the rightful owner, Chakanyuka chose to flee the scene before authorities could be alerted.
Court Sentence and Conditions
Chakanyuka was later apprehended, faced the legal system, and was convicted. The court handed down a total sentence of 24 months in prison. However, the sentence was structured with several suspended conditions:
- Seven months were suspended for five years on the condition of good behaviour.
- One month was suspended on the condition that he restitutes the USD85 to the complainant.
- Sixteen months were suspended on the condition that he completes 560 hours of community service.
This means Chakanyuka will avoid serving the full jail term only if he meets all these court-mandated requirements.
A Pattern of Similar Crimes
In a statement following the conviction, the National Prosecuting Authority reaffirmed its "commitment to safeguarding communities against unlawful entry and theft." This case is not an isolated one. It follows a similar incident from October in the Mbare area, where two men were also jailed after being caught wearing clothing they had stolen during a break-in. In that case, the pair took groceries, clothing, and household items worth about USD500 and were convicted by the Mbare Magistrates’ Court.
The conviction of Marlvin Chakanyuka serves as a stark reminder that criminal acts, especially those carried out with such boldness, often lead to quick identification and prosecution. The structured sentence also highlights the judiciary's approach in combining punishment with restitution and community contribution.
