The Zimbabwean community in the UK has been left stunned after a fellow countryman, Phillip Mhodzi, was arrested in Birmingham for allegedly running a car theft operation.
According to local reports, Mhodzi, believed to be in his early 30s, was caught after a police sting targeting a string of high-end vehicle thefts across the city. Authorities say he specialized in stealing luxury cars using electronic key cloning devices, with several stolen vehicles already linked back to him.
Residents in Birmingham say car thefts have been on the rise, and Mhodzi’s arrest has raised eyebrows among Zimbabweans living abroad who fear the incident could tarnish their community’s reputation.
A police spokesperson confirmed the arrest, stating:
“We have taken Phillip Mhodzi into custody in connection with multiple vehicle thefts. Investigations are ongoing, and further charges may follow.”
Social media has erupted with reactions, with some Zimbabweans condemning Mhodzi for bringing shame to the diaspora community, while others say everyone deserves their day in court before judgment is passed.
For now, Mhodzi remains behind bars as he awaits trial, while police continue their probe into what they suspect is a wider network of car thefts.
