A well-known Borrowdale fitness trainer has been arrested after allegedly pulling off a daring theft — stealing US$5,000 from a gym client’s car while he was still pumping iron inside!
The suspect, Tinashe Gandari, a trainer at the upmarket Pro Fitness Health Club located at The Village, Borrowdale, was nabbed by police on Wednesday after the shocking incident sent waves through Harare’s elite fitness circles.
According to sources, the victim — identified as Allen Tatenda Badzarugere (39) — had parked his Mercedes-Benz outside the gym and gone inside for his routine workout, unaware that his trusted trainer was plotting against him.
Investigations suggest Gandari allegedly sneaked into the changing rooms, grabbed the client’s car keys, and quietly slipped into the parking lot — where he helped himself to US$5,000 stashed in the glove compartment.
After completing his session, Badzarugere reportedly returned to his car only to find the money gone — with no signs of forced entry. It was then that he realised someone must have used his keys to access the vehicle.
Police confirmed that Tinashe, a former employee of the gym, is now in custody and assisting with investigations.
Harare Hit by Wave of Car Heists — Over US$70,000 Gone in Days!
In a separate case, David James Gentleman (35) of Mandara became the next victim, losing a jaw-dropping US$34,700 when thieves smashed into his Ford Ranger in Southerton.
David had parked along Douglas Road to check on a construction site. Barely a minute later, he heard commotion — only to return and find his window shattered and his satchel full of cash gone.
And the crime spree didn’t stop there!
A Tynwald woman, Believe Chinotsa (41), also suffered a heavy blow after US$30,210 and a laptop were stolen from her Honda Fit while she got her hair done at Divaris Shopping Centre.
She reportedly came out of the salon 40 minutes later to find her driver’s door ajar and the quarter glass smashed — her valuables gone without a trace.
Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza confirmed all three incidents, warning motorists to stop leaving large sums of money in their vehicles.
“We are investigating cases of theft from motor vehicles involving more than US$70,000 in total,” Insp Chakanza said.
“Motorists must avoid keeping cash and valuables inside parked cars. Criminals are targeting vehicles left unattended — even for a few minutes.”
So far, none of the stolen cash has been recovered, but police say investigations are underway and more arrests could follow.
ZiMetro Warning:
Harare drivers, be alert — the city’s thieves are watching your every move. One careless moment could cost you thousands. Lock up, don’t show off cash, and never trust anyone — even your trainer might be the thief!