ZRP Raises Alarm Over Rising Car Thefts, Urges Vig...

ZRP Raises Alarm Over Rising Car Thefts, Urges Vigilance from Motorists

Zim Now Writer

The Zimbabwe Republic Police has expressed deep concern over a spate of recent motor vehicle thefts across the country, warning motorists to exercise greater vigilance and avoid practices that leave their cars vulnerable to criminals.

In a statement on Monday, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi revealed that six vehicles were stolen in just one day, 12 June 2025, in separate incidents in Harare and Mashonaland West. The cases involved a mix of house break-ins, vehicle key negligence, and thefts involving strangers being offered accommodation or transport.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is concerned with the recent cases of motor vehicle thefts across the country. The cases are occurring at residential areas, overnight car parks, or when vehicle owners leave car keys on the ignition of unattended vehicles,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

In Avonlea, Harare, unknown suspects broke into company premises and stole two vehicles, a Toyota Hilux and a Mazda BT50 along with valuable goods such as generators, refrigerators, solar batteries, cement, and money-counting machines. The Hilux was later found abandoned in Majuru Village, Kutama, while a money-counting machine was recovered.

In Mutorashanga, a vehicle owner parked his Honda Fit in a shop backyard and left the keys in the ignition overnight. He later discovered the vehicle had been stolen while he slept.

In Karoi, a 29-year-old man lost his Toyota Fun Cargo after offering a man identified as Moses Kachasu a place to sleep in the vehicle. Despite keeping the keys in his house, the complainant awoke to find both the car and Kachasu missing. Police say the suspect may have used an unknown method to start the vehicle.