MSU Student Owen Muteeri Faces 17-Year Sentence Over Robbery He Claims He Didn’t Commit

A growing wave of public concern has emerged over the case of Owen Muteeri, a 28year-old Midlands State University (MSU) student who was recently sentenced to 17 years in prison for a robbery he and his supporters insist he did not commit.

Muteeri, who was studying at MSU’s School of Social Work, worked night shifts as a security guard in 2023 to finance his education.

According to family members and supporters, his life took a tragic turn in December 2023 when armed robbers stormed the premises where he was on duty and stole US$238,000.

Reports indicate that on the night of the robbery, Owen was in the guardroom working on his dissertation, with his security dog by his side. When the dog suddenly reacted to unusual activity, he stepped outside to check. He was immediately confronted by armed robbers who pointed guns at him.

The assailants allegedly ordered him to restrain the dog, handcuffed him using his own cuffs, and forced him to lie face down on the floor while they broke into offices and used a grinder to cut open a safe.

They stole US$238,000, and later forced Owen to dig for an additional amount they believed was buried on-site. It was later confirmed that US$2,700 was recovered from the hole.

Despite being a victim, Owen soon found himself transformed into the prime suspect.

How the Victim Became the Accused
Authorities suspected Owen of involvement because his phone and laptop were not stolen, while gadgets belonging to security guards at a neighbouring property were taken.
Additionally, he immediately reported leftover money found at the scene to the caretaker and the police—an action investigators interpreted as suspicious rather than honest.
His defence team argued that a guilty accomplice would never have volunteered such information, especially without coercion or threats.

Family members also questioned the caretaker’s claim that he slept through the loud noise of the grinder used to open the safe—something that raised eyebrows but was never fully scrutinised in court.

A Promising Student Behind Bars
Despite the trauma, Owen completed his degree and even received recognition from MSU for his remarkable dedication—studying during the day and working nights to support himself.

His relatives say he has always been hardworking, disciplined, and committed to creating a better future.

Now, with a 17-year sentence hanging over him, the family fears he will only leave prison at age 47, losing the most productive years of his life for a crime they maintain he did not commit.

Family Appeals for Urgent Help
Owen’s family says they are preparing an appeal that is expected to be heard in the High Court within the next eight days. However, they urgently need financial assistance for legal fees, food, and toiletries for Owen as he awaits the hearing.

They are pleading with the public to assist in any way possible.

Those wishing to help can contribute via:

EcoCash:

📱 0777 944 926 (Sacial Chuma)

For more information: