Stolen vehicle found at cemetery

By Karen Sibanda

A night out at a popular Masvingo nightspot ended in shock for a 32-year-old Rujeko man after his vehicle was stolen only to be found hours later abandoned at Runyararo West Cemetery.

Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, confirmed the incident, which occurred in the early hours of February 22, 2026 and urged members of the public to ensure that they park their vehicles in well-lit areas during the night.

“We have received a report of theft of a motor vehicle after the complainant realized that his Honda Fit had been stolen from outside a popular night spot, Masvingo. Investigations were made, leading to the recovery of the vehicle at Runyararo West Cemetery.

“We urge members of the public to avoid leaving vehicles unattended for extended periods, especially during the night. Motorists should ensure their vehicles are properly secured and, where possible, parked in well-lit and guarded areas. ,” said Assistant Inspector Patinyu.

Circumstances are that the complainant, Tapiwanashe Mapetese of Rujeko A, had parked his white Honda Fit (old shape) outside the night spot at around 10pm on February 21 before going inside for drinks.

Mapetese briefly returned to the vehicle at around 1:30am to collect a jacket. After locking the car, he went back into the bar. However, at approximately 3:00am, when he intended to drive home, the vehicle was nowhere to be found.

The vehicle, valued at approximately US$5,000, was recovered abandoned. No arrests had been made by time of writing and investigations into the theft were ongoing.