Talent Moyo, a Bulawayo social media personality known for his street antics, has been convicted of theft and sentenced to four months in jail for stealing US$150.

Moyo, from Emganwini suburb, was given an option to pay a US$200 fine. Three months of the sentence were suspended on condition he does not commit a similar offence within five years.

According to the State, the incident occurred on September 11 at around 10:20am. Moyo met the complainant, Value Chivenge, near a shop at the corner of 6th Avenue and Jason Moyo Street. He hugged her, reached into her bag, stole US$150, and fled.

Chivenge reported the matter to Bulawayo Central Police Station, leading to his arrest.

In court, Moyo admitted hugging the complainant but denied stealing the money.

The magistrate dismissed his defence, noting that State witnesses gave consistent accounts. One witness said she saw Moyo search the complainant and take the money, while another saw the hug shortly before Chivenge realised her cash was missing.

The court ruled that the State had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt.

This is not Moyo’s first brush with the law. He is also expected to appear in court for allegedly stealing US$48 from a parked car, a matter for which he has been referred for mental examination.