UPDATE: Zim Phone Thief Arrested After Viral Smash-and-Grab Video, Using Fake South African Passport
A man from Zimbabwe, Nobert Zapambela, known for allegedly stealing cellphones, was arrested today in Hillbrow after a video went viral showing him snatching a woman’s phone in a smash-and-grab incident.
Zapambela, who has a Zimbabwean passport, is linked to several phone thefts across Gauteng.
However, there’s a twist: he had been released on bail before by using what seemed to be a South African passport under the name “Gumede.”
This has raised concerns about possible identity fraud, prompting officials to call for more investigations into how he obtained or used both documents.
As the situation develops, it brings attention to issues around immigration, document checks, and repeat offenders in South Africa’s justice system.
According to MDN, Zapambela is currently in custody, facing charges of theft and possession of stolen property.
