Bulawayo Woman Loses US$800 in Gweru ‘Tyre Distraction’ Theft

GWERU – A Bulawayo woman has lost at least US$800 in cash and valuables after falling victim to a coordinated distraction theft in Gweru on 18 April 2026. The victim, Constance Makhubalo, had travelled from Bulawayo with her sisters for their grandmother’s funeral when the incident occurred at Metro Peech, where the family had stopped to buy groceries.

According to details of the case, Makhubalo briefly returned to their parked vehicle after feeling unwell, leaving the door slightly open for ventilation. Moments later, a man approached and alerted her to what he claimed was a punctured tyre. As she stepped out to inspect it, a second suspect allegedly moved in from the opposite side of the vehicle and stole her handbag and mobile phone. The suspects are believed to have fled the scene in a gold Toyota Mark X bearing registration number AGD 1199. Investigations later revealed that the vehicle had been reported stolen in Kwekwe last year.

Makhubalo only discovered the theft upon returning to the car and finding her belongings missing. The stolen items included approximately US$800, of which US$650 has been confirmed along with her national identity card, driver’s licence, medical aid card, and mobile phone. The cash was reportedly intended for funeral expenses, compounding the emotional and financial impact on the family.

The matter has been reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police at Gweru Central Police Station under Case Number 6593533. Authorities have since launched investigations into the incident, which bears the hallmarks of a “distraction theft,” a tactic increasingly used by criminal syndicates targeting motorists in urban centres.

Security experts warn that such schemes often involve two or more suspects working in coordination to divert a victim’s attention while valuables are stolen.

“These criminals rely on creating urgency or concern, like a flat tyre or spilled items, to get victims out of their vehicles,” said a local security consultant.

Police have urged motorists to remain vigilant, particularly in public parking areas, and to avoid leaving vehicles unattended or unlocked.

Authorities recommend the following precautions:

• Always lock vehicle doors, even when seated inside

• Be cautious of strangers pointing out “faults” with your car

• Avoid leaving valuables in visible areas

• Seek assistance from trusted personnel if unsure

Police are appealing to members of the public who may have information regarding the suspects or the vehicle to come forward. As investigations continue, the case highlights the growing risk of organised petty crime and the need for increased public awareness to prevent similar incidents.

Gweru theft case