Denver Tinotenda Kazembe, aged 26 from Warren Park, and 37-year-old Edwin Mapako from Mbare have been denied bail by the Harare High Court as they face serious charges related to the theft of four motor vehicles.
The two men allegedly utilized duplicate keys to perpetrate these thefts, demonstrating a calculated approach to their criminal activities.
Their first alleged offense occurred on July 20, 2024, when they stole a silver Honda Fit valued at US$4,500 from the Sunningdale 2 Shops Bus Terminus Car Park around 1:20 AM; fortunately, the vehicle was subsequently recovered and is currently in the custody of CID VTS Harare.
Shortly thereafter, on August 3, 2024, they struck again, stealing a blue Honda Fit from Kuwadzana 6 Gazzlers Nite Club at approximately 2:20 AM, which was also recovered.
Just hours later that same night, at around 10:20 PM, they stole another silver Honda Fit from the Xing Xeng Nite Club in Belgravia, Harare, adding to their growing list of stolen vehicles.
In a previous incident on May 3, 2024, they took a beige Toyota Corolla from the same Nite Club at 11:30 PM, worth US$1,250, which was also recovered.
The police have made it clear that the recovery of these vehicles demonstrates their commitment to tackling vehicle theft in the city.
The judges highlighted the serious nature of the charges against Kazembe and Mapako, citing flight risk and the potential for them to tamper with evidence as reasons for denying bail.
Both men remain in custody pending trial at the Harare Magistrates’ Court, where they will face multiple counts of theft.
The court believe that releasing them on bail would undermine the judicial process given the severity of the offenses.
The community remains on high alert as the police continue their investigation into the duo’s activities, raising concerns about the possibility of additional victims.
Observers note that the methods employed by Kazembe and Mapako reflect a coordinated effort to exploit vulnerabilities in vehicle security.
The implications of this case resonate beyond the courtroom, impacting public perception of safety and property security in Harare.
Both defendants are expected to appear in court for a preliminary hearing, as the legal process advances.
