Community members of Shanzha village in Nzhelele are so fed-up with theft and housebreaking that they are demanding that all suspects in such cases leave the village. This follows an arrest made by the police a fortnight ago. Tshavhuyo Tshimuka (31) of Shanzha was arrested in connection with a break-in and robberies at houses and businesses.

It is alleged that Tshimuka stole numerous goods from Somalis' stores and from other members of the community. “Residents are furious and are demanding that the man leave our village,” said the village’s headman, Khosi Vhoshavhani Pfananani. He said they would attend his next court appearance and robustly oppose bail.

Tshimuka, who was a security officer, allegedly targeted Somalis' shops and broke into houses in various villages, including Dopeni, Fondwe, Khalavha and Tshavhalovhedzi. He appeared in court last Friday. He was remanded in custody as police investigations are continuing.

Police confiscated numerous goods, ranging from plasma TVs, computer accessories and speakers to groceries and blankets which were allegedly stolen in the weeks prior to his arrest. Siloam SAPS spokesperson W/O Edward Tharaga said they sympathised with the people who were affected by the incidents. He also warned community members to be vigilant and to alert their neighbours when they leave their homes. “We are also appealing to the shop owners to close their shops early as they’ve been targeted by the thieves,” he added.

The police are also investigating the allegations that the accused used a firearm to threaten shop owners during the robberies.

The police are also looking for two other suspects who are apparently still on the run. The police are pleading with the members of the public to call the Siloam police station if they have any information on the whereabouts of the suspects.