The ManicaPost
Liberty Dube Weekender Correspondent
A DARING thief was last Saturday beaten to death in Mutare’s high-density suburb of Chikanga after he was allegedly caught red-handed stealing a solar panel and an inverter. The thief, whose identity was yet to be established, died on the scene after he sustained serious injuries from the beatings.
Police arrested two suspects – Vanensio Machekano (41) and David Tembo (60) – of Chikanga Phase One in connection with the alleged murder. The incident happened around 11pm. The thief went to Machekano’s house and saw a solar panel and an inverter which were outside.
“He stole the goods and hid them near a plantation in the area. Machekano later realised that his goods had been stolen. The thief later came back in the evening looking for the goods. Barking dogs exposed the thief who tried to run away. Machekano and Tembo gave chase and caught up with him.
“The duo together with other neighbours allegedly assaulted him with sticks demanding to know where he had hidden the goods. They reported the matter to police. Police attended the scene and realised that the thief had already died. Machekano and Tembo were arrested and are set to appear in court on murder charges,” said Manicaland provincial police spokesperson Inspector Tavhiringwa Kakohwa.
“Investigations are in progress. We urge people to desist from doing instant justice on suspects. In situations like these, we urge people to report the matter to the police. We will not hesitate to arrest those who take the law into their hands,” he said.
