Former Warriors player Abel Muteji (46) has appeared in court for allegedly stealing motor vehicle parts.

The Zimbabwe under-23, Chapungu United and Mkwasine ace striker was arrested for theft.

Muteji played for Chapungu Football Club and together with his twin brother Cain, were part of the under-23 national team that was called for national duty in the All -Africa games in 1995.

Their brotherly partnership charmed the soccer loving nation.

Muteji however decided to hang his boots some years ago taking mechanics as his profession in Chiredzi’s Tshovani Suburb.

On Monday, he was in court and the State led by David Tafangenyasha submitted that on a date unknown to the State, the complainant Persuade Shemar left his truck parked outside Muteji’s premises.

The complainant later found out that a diesel pump, 500 litres tank, 60 wheel nuts, tilt pump, exhaust silencer, 2 leaf spring, 2 half shafts, 2 U bolts, 10 wheel studs, steering pump, front shock absorber, starter motor, wheel drum, 2 fuel pipes, 1 grill, 3 trailer load axles, 6 leaf springs, 6 hanger pins, 12 hanger bushes, 6 double booster chambers, twin splitter valve and 24 tier bolts were missing from both the truck and trailer.

Shemar, who resides in Kuwadzana in Harare reported the case to the police on 15 September who instituted investigations.

Muteji was found in possession of the missing diesel pump, leading to his arrest.

The recovered pump has been valued at $3 750 and the value of all the missing goods is Z$77 570 Bond.

Muteji is set to appear back in court on December 5.

Muteji studied at Mkwsine High School in the Lowveld where he started his football career.

In 1995, Abel and Cain (Muteji brothers) were voted soccer stars of the year with Dynamos’ Memory Mucherahowa winning the Player of The Year.-Lowveld Post