The Sunday News
Valencia Ndhlovu, Sunday News Reporter
A GARDENER has been arrested in Bulawayo after breaking into his employer’s house and stealing a large sum of cash and a gun.
Timothy Sibanda who resides in Newton West was employed as a part time gardener in Morningside by a 66-year-old lady.
According to police, on 28 July, Sibanda allegedly proceeded to the lady’s house knowing that she stayed alone and was at work.
He used a duplicate key to enter the house and proceeded to the main bedroom where he stole a CZ Pistol, US$400 and 4 000 pula and went away.
According to police, the landlord discovered the break-in and theft on 1 August and reported the case at Hillside Police Station and investigations were carried out by detectives.
On 3 August, detectives revisited the scene in the company of the complainant and they heard sounds of breaking glass coming from the house.
Sibanda was seen jumping out of a spare bedroom window and was pursued by police leading to his arrest.
The lady identified him as her gardener and it was discovered that Sibanda had already stolen an inverter and coffee maker from the spare bedroom.
Police proceeded to his place of residence and recovered the CZ Pistol in his bedroom.
They also recovered some money.
Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Abednico Ncube confirmed the incident and advised employers to vet their employees to avoid employing criminals who will steal from them.
“We urge the public to have their employees vetted by the police prior to employment to avoid employing criminals,” said Insp Ncube.
– @Valencia—mavae