Three Arrested Over Goat Theft Syndicate in Mbire as Police Recover Stolen Livestock

Police in Mashonaland Central Province have arrested three men suspected of being part of a stock theft syndicate operating in Mbire, following a series of livestock raids that left villagers counting losses. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the arrest of Albert Fibion (42), Funny Bisenti (44), and Trust Mahoko (42) in connection with the theft of 12 goats from Kamwaza Village and Mahuwe Business Centre in Mbire.

According to police, the suspects allegedly carried out the theft in the early hours of 27 April 2026, targeting households in the rural community where livestock is a critical source of income and food security. Investigations led officers, working with local residents, to track the suspects to Mapata in the Bakasa area, under Guruve.

“The suspects were tracked through a coordinated effort involving police and members of the community,” a police source said. “This kind of collaboration is key in combating stock theft in rural areas.”

Authorities recovered all 12 stolen goats, along with a white Toyota Hiace kombi, registration AGH 2725, believed to have been used as a getaway vehicle.

Further investigations have linked the trio to at least three other stock theft incidents in Mbire between April 4 and April 13, during which a total of 49 goats were stolen from multiple households. Stock theft remains a persistent challenge in Zimbabwe’s rural communities, where livestock such as goats and cattle represent a vital economic asset. Farmers often rely on these animals for income, school fees, and household sustenance.

Local leaders in Mbire welcomed the arrests, saying they bring relief to affected families who have suffered repeated losses.

“We have been living in fear because livestock theft has been increasing,” said a community member from Mahuwe. “These arrests give us hope that justice will be served.”

Police have urged farmers to strengthen livestock security measures, including kraaling animals at night, branding livestock, and promptly reporting suspicious activity.

Authorities also encouraged continued cooperation between communities and law enforcement agencies, noting that timely information sharing plays a crucial role in preventing and solving crimes. The suspects are expected to appear in court soon, facing charges related to stock theft and related offences. As investigations continue, police say more arrests could follow if additional links to organised livestock theft networks are established.

Mbire stock theft arrests