The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has made public the names of several convicted criminals in what authorities described as part of an intensified nationwide crackdown on serious crime. In a statement dated September 18, 2025, the police listed individuals who were recently sentenced for offences ranging from armed robbery and murder to carjacking, unlawful entry, and large-scale theft.
According to the ZRP, the publication of the names serves a dual purpose: to inform the public of the successful prosecution of dangerous offenders, and to reinforce the critical role played by ordinary citizens in assisting law enforcement. Police officials stressed that many of the convictions were secured because of tip-offs, cooperation, and vigilance from communities across the country.
Several violent criminals were recently convicted in Harare courts. On September 6, 2025, three men—22-year-old Kundiso Mlambo, 32-year-old Noel Gandazha, and 29-year-old Takudzwa Mazhambe—were each handed five-year prison sentences for armed robbery. The court heard that on July 3, 2025, the trio ambushed a victim, seizing a bag containing clothes and a cellphone.
Just two days later, on September 8, police secured another conviction. Garikai Zhelende, aged 30, was sentenced to eight years behind bars for a spate of robberies and unlawful entries. Prosecutors told the court that Zhelende would lie in wait along secluded paths, targeting unsuspecting pedestrians and snatching valuables such as cash, clothing, and personal effects. His criminal activities extended to breaking into both a church and a school, from which he stole utensils, musical drums, and roofing sheets.
The police statement further revealed that Zhelende impersonated law enforcement officers, stealing motor vehicles from four different victims before selling them to unsuspecting buyers.
On the same day, 36-year-old John Chagwiza was convicted on multiple counts of unlawful entry and theft. He was sentenced to 16 years in prison after repeatedly breaking into residential properties and making off with household goods. The stiff sentence reflected both the scale and persistence of his crimes.
Zimbabwe Police Release Names of Convicted Criminals in Sweeping Crackdown
The ZRP also highlighted recent carjacking cases that were finalised in court this month. On September 13, 2025, Enock Mawarire (39) and Khulekani Sibanda (34) were sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment for the violent hijacking of a Nissan Caravan in Belvedere, Harare. Police credited the speed of their arrest and prosecution to community members who quickly reported suspicious activities.
A few days later, on September 16, 2025, the Chitungwiza Magistrates’ Court handed down sentences to two more carjackers. Thirty-two-year-old Tapiwa Malasha and 41-year-old Francis Zuze were jailed for seven years each after stealing a Toyota Hiace from Zvipoto, Unit N shops, in Chitungwiza. The theft occurred on September 14, and within 48 hours, both suspects had been apprehended, tried, and convicted. Authorities hailed the swift conclusion as an example of efficient policing combined with community vigilance.
Speaking on behalf of the police, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the ZRP Chief Staff Officer for Press and Public Relations, applauded citizens for their role in the crackdown. He stressed that without community intelligence, many of the cases would not have been solved so quickly.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police applauds the public for supplying information that led to the arrest and subsequent conviction of the accused persons,” Nyathi said. “The public should continue supplying information on criminal activities in the country. Together, we can dismantle the networks that fuel crime.”
The ZRP reiterated its commitment to combating violent crime through both proactive policing and sustained partnerships with communities. Authorities reminded citizens that all reports of suspicious behaviour can be made to the National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631 or through WhatsApp on 0712 800 187.
Law enforcement experts say the publication of convicted criminals’ names represents a stronger shift towards transparency and deterrence. By publicising the details of convictions, the ZRP seeks not only to reassure the public of its effectiveness but also to warn would-be offenders that crime will not go unpunished.
The crimes highlighted—armed robbery, unlawful entry, and carjacking—have long plagued urban centres such as Harare and Chitungwiza, often leaving victims traumatised and communities unsettled. The recent convictions, particularly those achieved within days of the offences, reflect a justice system working in closer synchronisation with police and the public.
For residents, the message is clear: cooperation with law enforcement produces tangible results. For criminals, the warning is equally direct: Zimbabwe’s courts are prepared to hand down stiff sentences, and the police are determined to pursue offenders relentlessly.
As the crackdown continues, authorities are urging citizens to remain alert, to report crime promptly, and to avoid purchasing suspicious goods, especially motor vehicles offered under dubious circumstances.
Source- iHarare
