Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – Bulawayo police have recovered two motor vehicles that were stolen in separate incidents in and around the city, including a Toyota Prado hijacked at gunpoint from a woman in the city centre earlier this month.
Police spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele confirmed the recovery of two motor vehicles that were stolen in Bulawayo on different occasions, following swift investigations and tip-offs from members of the public.
The first incident occurred on January 5,2026 at around 9AM when a 42-year-old woman from Hillside was hijacked, and her vehicle taken in broad daylight.
“The complainant parked her black Toyota Prado, registration number AFE 5436, at a fruit and vegetable supermarket along 15th Avenue between Robert Mugabe Way and George Silundika Street,” the police spokesperson said.
After shopping for about 45 minutes, she returned to her vehicle intending to load groceries when she was confronted by three unknown men.
“They blocked her from getting into the vehicle, demanded cash and car keys and produced a black pistol, threatening to shoot her if she screamed,” Msebele added.
Fearing for her life, the woman reportedly surrendered the car keys, her handbag containing US$1 000 in cash, and a Samsung cellphone.
The suspects drove off along 15th Avenue, leaving her stranded. A police report was immediately filed, she said.
On January 16, police received information that the stolen vehicle had been sighted near Dula Shopping Centre in Esigodini.
“The motor vehicle was later found dumped along the old Gwanda Road in Esigodini. All doors were closed but not locked and the keys were missing,” Inspector Msebele said.
The total value stolen was US$22 500, and police managed to recover the vehicle valued at US$21 000.
In a separate incident, police also recovered a light blue Honda Fit, registration number AHC 5682, which had been stolen on January 18 from Tshabalala.
A 42-year-old man had parked the vehicle near a church close to Basic Shops before attending a morning church service.
Although he closed the doors and windows, he failed to lock the vehicle.
When the service ended around 945AM, the car was missing.
Police acted swiftly, posting pictures of the stolen vehicle on local WhatsApp community groups.
Later that evening, at around 1800 hours, Msebele said police received information that the vehicle was parked outside a house in Lobengula West.
“The vehicle was found with its rear number plate detached and placed in the boot, while everything else was intact,” she added.
The Honda Fit, valued at US$4 000, was recovered.
Insp Msebele applauded the role played by the public in the recovery of the second vehicle.
“We appreciate members of the public who supplied information that led to the recovery of the motor vehicle. Community cooperation remains key in fighting crime,” she said.
She also urged residents to remain vigilant and act promptly.
“We encourage members of the public to report early any suspicious or dumped vehicles to the police, as this greatly assists investigations and recovery efforts,” Insp Msebele added.
New Ziana
