Lalapanzi- A notorius cattle rustler Tinodakufa Hove (36) who wrecked havoc stealing cattle on various farms in Lalapanzi over the past six months since September 2023 has since been arrested and sentenced to 54 years in prison.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police(ZRP) reports that on 26 July 2023 around 0900 hours, Tinodakufa Hove stole seven cattle from Brenda Mushava’s cattle pen during the night and drove them towards Chivi.
Police intercepted and arrested the suspect at Mawara Farm, Tokwe in Lalapanzi following a tip-off from members of the public.
All seven cattle were recovered.
Police instituted investigations which led to the recovery of thirty-two (32) cattle from twelve unsuspecting Chivi villagers under Chief Watungwa in Masvingo.
Investigations established that the suspect on separate occasions sold his stolen stock to unsuspecting Chivi villagers. In other instances he would exchange with oxen ready for slaughter at butcheries from villagers.
All the recovered 32 cattle valued at US$12 800-00 were positively identified by six different owners from Lalapanzi.
The suspect appeared in court facing six counts of stocktheft on 18 February 2024. Mvuma Magistrate Constance Mutandwa convicted and sentenced the suspect to 54 years imprisonment.
“The police would like to applaud members of the public for their continued support of supplying such information which helps to account for criminals,” said ZRP Midlands Spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko.
