Serial Housebreaking Suspect Arrested After Avonlea Burglary Spree

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Harare

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested a 33-year-old Epworth man in connection with a series of housebreaking and theft cases that allegedly terrorised residents of Avonlea suburb in Harare over the past three months. Police identified the suspect as Moses Damalekani (33) of Muguta Extension, Epworth, who is facing 10 counts of unlawful entry into premises in aggravating circumstances, as defined under Section 131 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23].

Avonlea residents plagued by burglary spree

According to the ZRP, the alleged offences occurred between May and July 2026, during which residents of Avonlea experienced a surge in housebreaking incidents that left many fearing for the security of their homes. The increase in reported burglaries prompted detectives from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to launch an intensive investigation aimed at identifying those responsible.

Police said a breakthrough came on 27 July 2026, when detectives received credible information linking Damalekani to the alleged offences. A manhunt was subsequently launched, leading to his arrest.

Stolen property recovered

Investigations indicate that the suspect allegedly gained entry into houses by breaking windows with unidentified objects before stealing valuables, including mobile phones and laptop computers. Following his arrest, Damalekani allegedly led detectives to the recovery of several stolen cellphones and laptops.

Police said the recovered property was positively identified by its rightful owners. Investigators are continuing efforts to recover additional stolen items believed to be linked to the alleged offences. The suspect is expected to appear in court to answer the charges.

In a statement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police thanked members of the public for providing information that led to the arrest.

"The Zimbabwe Republic Police extends its profound gratitude to members of the public for supplying vital information, which led to the arrest of the accused and the subsequent recovery of stolen property," the police said.

The police also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station as part of efforts to combat property-related crime.

Community policing experts say cooperation between residents and law enforcement agencies remains one of the most effective tools in preventing and solving burglary cases, particularly in high-density urban areas where neighbourhood watch initiatives have contributed to improved public safety. The ZRP has in recent months intensified operations targeting housebreaking syndicates across Harare as part of broader efforts to curb property crimes. Under Zimbabwean law, every accused person is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Avonlea housebreaking suspect arrested