Oxford, UK – June 2025
A Zimbabwean national was sentenced to 18 weeks in prison this month after attempting to steal from a Tesco supermarket in Oxford and threatening staff with a needle. The man, identified as Zywai Nyahoda, 35, was caught trying to exit the store with concealed goods before being confronted by store security. When stopped, Nyahoda became aggressive and pulled out a syringe, threatening to stab a security guard unless he was allowed to leave.
The court heard that Nyahoda has a long history of petty theft and drug-related offenses, with 15 prior convictions covering 54 offenses across multiple towns. His defense argued that his criminal behavior escalated after the loss of his grandmother, which led to a long-term struggle with heroin addiction. Despite efforts by community rehabilitation programs, the court was told that Nyahoda repeatedly failed to attend scheduled appointments and showed no improvement in behavior.
In sentencing, the magistrate emphasized the danger posed to staff and the public. “Brandishing a syringe to threaten retail workers is deeply disturbing and cannot be tolerated,” she said. Nyahoda was remanded to HM Prison Bullingdon, and the judge recommended continued psychiatric and drug counseling support during his incarceration. The case has reignited local concerns over shoplifting and violence in city center stores, with calls for increased security and better mental health resources.
