POLICE in Gweru, Midlands Province, have arrested two suspects in connection with a fire that gutted four shops in the city centre last week, with investigators alleging the blaze was started to cover up a major theft of electronics.

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said Tephilia Sapphire (21) and Norman Mashindi (34) were picked up on October 29, 2026, following a tip-off.

The arrests relate to an incident on October 23, 2026, at a building along 6th Street in Gweru's central business district. A fire ripped through the property and destroyed four shops.

According to Commissioner Nyathi, investigations established that the suspects allegedly broke into one of the shops and stole cellphones and laptops worth US$17,000 before setting it alight in an attempt to destroy evidence.

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Detectives later traced the pair to a hotel in the city. A search of their room led to the recovery of cellphones and laptops valued at approximately US$10,000.

Police said the stolen items had been hidden in a black Monarch bag, a travelling bag and a 50kg sack.

"Police have since recovered cellphones and laptops valued at approximately US$10,000.00 from the suspects' hotel room. The items were concealed in a black Monarch bag, a travelling bag and a 50 kg sack," Commissioner Nyathi said in a statement.

Both suspects are assisting police with further investigations. They are expected to appear in court soon to face charges of theft and arson.

Commissioner Nyathi urged members of the public to continue providing information that leads to the arrest of criminals.