A Bulawayo woman was arrested and appeared in court for allegedly stealing a cellphone and US$70 from a fellow nightclub patron during an altercation. Moreblessing Mudenda, a 24-year-old resident of the Pumula South suburb, pleaded guilty to the theft charge and was remanded in custody until her sentencing. The incident occurred on July 1st at a local nightclub in Bulawayo’s city center.
According to the prosecution, Mudenda and the complainant, Alert Tahwa, were drinking beer and dancing together when they had a misunderstanding. While the two were dancing, Mudenda searched Tahwa and took his cellphone and US$70 before leaving the venue. Mudenda realized that she had lost her own phone and began searching for it, catching the attention of nightclub bouncers who had witnessed her actions.
The police were alerted, leading to Mudenda’s arrest near the Palace Hotel. However, neither the stolen cellphone nor the money was recovered. Mudenda was charged with theft of property and pled guilty in court. She is currently awaiting sentencing.
In an unrelated incident, a 20-year-old man from Bulawayo’s Mzilikazi suburb also appeared before the same magistrate for allegedly stealing a cellphone at a local bar. Graig Mlilo was accused of stealing a Samsung Galaxy M33 5G from Ndabezinhle Ngwenya while the phone was charging. The theft was discovered when Ngwenya couldn’t locate his phone and the barman reviewed CCTV footage, which captured Mlilo stealing the device.
A police report was filed, leading to Mlilo’s arrest, although the stolen cellphone was not recovered. Mlilo is currently in custody and his trial has been set for a later date.
These incidents highlight the importance of personal security and awareness in crowded areas such as nightclubs and bars. Patrons should remain vigilant and take precautions to safeguard their belongings to avoid falling victim to theft. The court proceedings will determine the appropriate consequences for these alleged crimes and serve as a reminder of the legal repercussions individuals face when engaging in such actions.
The Zimbabwean legal system plays a significant role in ensuring justice is served, and it remains to be seen what penalties Mudenda and Mlilo will ultimately face if found guilty.
