Gweru Rural Police Intelligence and Anti-Stock Theft units have dismantled a suspected criminal syndicate, believed to be led by an ex-convict, following a failed attempt to transport a stolen cattle carcass on January 21, 2025.The arrested suspects include Enock Mpofu, alias Jona (32) of Eastlea, Zvishavane; Chrispen Matondo Zikhali (40) of Isaiah Park, Zvishavane; and Tanaka Murereka (24) of Council Park, Zvishavane.
Investigations revealed that Zikhali had previously served two prison sentences for stock theft in Zvishavane and Gweru.Speaking to Great Dyke News, ZRP Midlands spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said the syndicate was exposed when they hired a private Toyota Probox to transport what was later discovered to be stolen meat.
During the journey along the Gweru-Mvuma Road near Lalapanzi, the transporter became suspicious after witnessing the men chasing and capturing cattle near the roadside. The group then slaughtered a cow near Hwahwa Prison and delivered the meat to various houses in Mkoba, Gweru.Growing uneasy over their evasive responses about the meat, the transporter returned to Zvishavane and alerted authorities.
Acting on the tip-off, police arrested Mpofu in Mandava, Zvishavane, before apprehending Zikhali and Murereka at Top-Ten Shops in Mkoba 5, Gweru. A fourth suspect, Bongani Ncube, remains at large, and police are actively searching for him.
A subsequent search of several houses in Mkoba led to the recovery of approximately 50 kilograms of meat, a cattle head, a hide, and slaughter tools, including an axe, ropes, and knives. The rightful owner of the stolen cattle has since been identified.Authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious activities linked to stock theft as investigations continue.
