10/24/2026
Man Admits to 10 Theft Counts, Says He Wanted Lobola Money
A 26-year-old man has admitted to 10 counts of theft and unlawful entry into premises in aggravating circumstances telling a Harare court that he stole to raise money for his wife’s lobola.
Livingstone Mutevhani appeared before the Harare Magistrates’ Court facing charges linked to a series of break-ins and thefts in Harare and Chitungwiza between September and October 2026.
According to court papers, the offences targeted shops, offices and other business premises, with stolen property including mobile phones, electronic equipment, clothing, shoes, groceries and household goods.
One of the incidents involved an alleged break-in at Njenje Complex at Makoni Shopping Centre in Chitungwiza on September 30, where several mobile phones and accessories were reportedly stolen.
On October 3, Mutevhani was accused of breaking into premises along Rezende Street in Harare, where computers, printers, power tools, clothing and other items were allegedly taken.
Further charges relate to incidents at Makoni Shopping Centre on October 6 and 11, involving the alleged theft of shoes, clothing, electronic devices, mobile phone accessories and other merchandise from different businesses.
He is also accused of breaking into Eat and Leak Private Limited, at the corner of Robert Mugabe Road and Second Street in Harare’s central business district, on October 6.
A cellphone, closed-circuit television (CCTV) monitor, toolbox and small bag were reportedly stolen during the incident.
Other charges involve the alleged theft of groceries and household products from premises along Leopold Takawira Street on October 17, as well as blankets and shoes reportedly stolen from the same street on October 10.
After admitting to all 10 counts, Mutevhani told the court that he committed the offences to raise money for lobola for his wife.
The court is expected to deliver its ruling on Monday.
