A Zimbabwean man named Nobert Zapambela, known for allegedly snatching cellphones, was arrested today in Hillbrow, Johannesburg, following a viral video of him grabbing a woman’s phone in a smash-and-grab incident.
Zapambela, who holds a Zimbabwean passport, has reportedly been linked to multiple phone thefts across Gauteng. But there’s a twist: authorities say he was previously released on bail after presenting what appeared to be a South African passport under the name “Gumede.”
This has raised serious red flags about possible identity fraud, with officials now calling for a deeper investigation into how he might have obtained or used dual documents. As the case unfolds, it’s highlighting ongoing concerns around immigration, document verification, and repeat offenders in the country’s justice system. Zapambela remains in custody, facing charges related to theft and possession of suspected stolen property.