Security Guards Convicted of Theft After Stealing Money from Robbery Scene

Two security guards employed by J and P Security Company, Cornelius Muchikange (35) and Nesbert Kachungwe (35), pleaded guilty to theft charges in Harare Magistrates Court. They admitted to pocketing US$53,000 that had been dropped by robbers during a heist at Quest Finance.

The incident occurred on February 25th, when a group of 12 armed robbers stole over US$744,000 from Quest Finance. While responding to the scene, Muchikange and Kachungwe discovered a bag containing US$53,000 that the fleeing robbers had accidentally left behind. Instead of reporting the recovered money, they decided to keep it for themselves.

Muchikange used his share to purchase a car, and a residential plot, and pay lobola (bride price) to his in-laws. Kachungwe used the stolen funds to buy a van and building materials.

The court documents detail how the robbers were disturbed by security teams during their escape, leading them to abandon various items, including the bag containing the US$53,000. Muchikange and Kachungwe, stationed near the perimeter wall, found the money and chose to conceal it.

Authorities apprehended the pair on March 8th after receiving a tip regarding the stolen money. During questioning, Muchikange revealed that he was later approached by individuals posing as police officers who stole an additional US$15,000 from him. Kachungwe also reported being robbed of US$7,000 by the same fake officers.

The court is scheduled to deliver sentencing on Tuesday. The recovered stolen property amounts to US$15,700.