Cloth Thief Nabbed After Wearing Victim’s Stolen Jacket
A 28-year-old man has been convicted of unlawful entry after he was caught wearing a jacket stolen from his victim, a mistake that ultimately led to his arrest and prosecution.
The convict, Marlvin Chakanyuka, a resident of Highwood Phase 2 in Concession, was found guilty of breaking into a man’s room and stealing several personal belongings while the owner was away. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
According to a statement issued by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) of Zimbabwe, the incident occurred in August 2025, when Chakanyuka unlawfully entered the residence of a 46-year-old man and made away with a stonewash jean jacket, jean trousers, a pair of sneakers, a red-and-black Bluetooth speaker, and a blue-and-white blanket.
The stolen items were valued at US$85.
Trouble began for Chakanyuka on 25 August 2025, at about 1:00 pm, when the victim spotted him walking through the neighbourhood wearing the stolen stonewash jacket.
The victim immediately recognised the clothing and confronted Chakanyuka. However, the suspect reportedly fled the scene before security operatives could be alerted.
Subsequent investigations led to Chakanyuka’s arrest, prosecution, and eventual conviction.
The court sentenced Chakanyuka to 24 months imprisonment, with portions of the sentence suspended under specific conditions.
Seven months were suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour, one month was suspended on the condition that he restitutes the sum of US$85 to the complainant, while the remaining 16 months were suspended on condition that he completes 560 hours of community service.
In its reaction, the National Prosecuting Authority stated that the conviction reinforces its commitment to protecting communities against theft and unlawful entry.
The case mirrors a similar incident recorded in October in Mbare, where two men were sentenced to jail after being caught wearing clothes stolen during a house break-in.
The suspects had stolen groceries, clothing, and household items valued at approximately US$500 and were convicted by the Mbare Magistrates’ Court.