A 23-year-old man is now serving a prison sentence after he was found guilty of stealing a police vehicle in Zimbabwe. The court handed down a strong message about protecting state assets.
Court Convicts Man for Serious Breach of Trust
Godfrey Musa Ndlovu, aged 23, received his sentence from the Chinhoyi Magistrates’ Court. He pleaded guilty to stealing a vehicle belonging to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP). The court described his actions as a serious breach of trust involving state property.
The magistrate sentenced Ndlovu to 30 months behind bars. However, the court suspended 18 months of that term on condition of good behaviour. This leaves an effective custodial sentence of 12 months in prison.
How the Police Car Was Stolen
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe provided details of the crime. The incident happened on December 7, 2025, at the Chemagamba Police Camp in Chinhoyi.
Early that morning, around 5 a.m., a police officer was preparing to travel to Mutoko. He was using a silver Kia Rio patrol vehicle. Ndlovu, who is related to the officer's neighbour, asked for a lift into Chinhoyi town. The officer agreed and allowed him to load his belongings into the car.
Before they could depart, the officer went back into his house briefly to get his cellphone. He made the critical mistake of leaving the car keys in a jacket on the seat. Ndlovu seized this opportunity. He took the keys and drove off in the police vehicle.
The Arrest and Recovery of the Vehicle
Police later received information about Ndlovu's movements. They tracked him down and intercepted him near the Thrills Service Station. At the time, he was travelling in an unregistered taxi, commonly known in the area as a mushikashika.
After his arrest, Ndlovu led officers to Ruvimbo Phase 2. This is where the stolen police car was recovered. The vehicle, valued at US$6,000, had been tampered with.
The following changes were made to the car:
- The registration plates were removed.
- The third plate was altered.
- The police radio was disconnected.
- The communication aerial was damaged.
The missing registration plates, worth US$650, were never found.
Court's Firm Warning on State Property
In its ruling, the Chinhoyi Magistrates’ Court underscored a vital point. It stated clearly that state assets are protected by law. The court warned that any breach of trust and unlawful conduct involving government property would attract stiff penalties.
This case serves as a strong reminder about the consequences of tampering with or stealing property belonging to the state. The law will come down heavily on those who attempt it.
