Former First Lady, Mrs Grace Mugabe, broke down in tears during a court hearing on Tuesday when some of the stolen personal items belonging to her late husband, former President Robert Gabriel Mugabe, were returned to her. The emotional scene prompted the presiding magistrate, Mrs Esthere Chivasa, to ask for a brief adjournment to allow Mrs Mugabe to regain her composure.
Burglary from the Blue Roof residence

The case involves four former employees – Allen Chinamonya (42), Danmore Chinamonya (35), Samson Karonga and Tendai Bunganirwa – who face charges of illegal entry in aggravating circumstances.

The accused allegedly broke into 11 containers stored at the Mugabe family’s Blue Roof residence in Borrowdale, which contained household items moved there from Zimbabwe House after Mr Mugabe’s retirement in 2017.

The stolen property, valued at approximately $500,000, included televisions, clothing, cutlery, bedspreads, bath towels and other household goods. Police have so far recovered about $2,000 worth of items.
Mrs. Mugabe’s testimony

In her testimony, Mrs Mugabe recounted how Allen, a former family driver, was caught with some of the stolen goods. She accused Samson Karonga of orchestrating the thefts, claiming he was involved in previous incidents.

“Allen was caught with some of the stolen goods, but I strongly suspect Karonga. He has been linked to every case of theft that has taken place,” Mrs Mugabe told the court.

The defense claims the items were gifts

The defendants, represented by lawyer Renetty Takudzwa Kuchidza, denied the allegations. In their defence, they claimed that the containers were stored in an accessible parking lot and the items in question were gifted to them by the late former president.
Discovery of the theft

The theft was discovered in May 2024 when Mrs Mugabe tried to recover artefacts belonging to her late husband to donate to the African Liberation Museum. Upon opening the containers, she discovered broken locks and missing items.

A subsequent police investigation led to the arrest of the accused and the recovery of several items from their residence, including suits, bed covers and a television.
Process in progress

The trial continues, with the state trying to prove the quartet’s involvement in the theft. The Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police commended the investigation team for their work, stressing the importance of holding those responsible accountable.

The case has attracted significant public attention, with many following the proceedings closely as a reminder of the lasting legacy of the former Zimbabwean leader and the challenges his family faces after his death.