South African robbery gang foiled in Harare: Two suspects killed, four accomplices arrested
In a dramatic turn of events, two suspected robbers operating from South Africa were shot dead in Harare as they planned to carry out a series of criminal activities, including kidnapping prominent individuals for ransom. Following a shootout with detectives at a guest house in the city, their four accomplices were also apprehended.
Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the national police spokesperson, confirmed the incident in a statement. He identified the deceased as Jabulani Ngobeni (45) and Godknows Machingura (44), who lost their lives during the shoot-out in Arcadia, Harare. Additionally, Ndiafhi Makhado (39), Andrew Masubelele (38), Paul Zhou (55), and Emmanuel Makamo (22) were arrested for their involvement in a conspiracy to commit armed robbery in Kwekwe on December 19, 2023.
According to Assistant Commissioner Nyathi, the suspects had recently traveled from South Africa with the intention of carrying out armed robberies. Acting on a tip-off, detectives from CID Homicide in Harare raided the guest house on Mauritius Road in Arcadia, leading to the shootout.
During the operation, the police recovered two 9mm pistols and 13 rounds of ammunition. Further investigations unveiled that the gang had rented two vehicles, a Toyota Fortuner (registration number AFX 0554) and a Honda Fit (registration number AFO 7446), which they intended to employ in their criminal activities.
The swift action taken by the Zimbabwe Republic Police thwarted the planned crimes and resulted in the neutralization of two suspects while capturing their associates.
This incident highlights the vigilance and commitment of law enforcement agencies in combating organized crime. The timely intervention by the Zimbabwe Republic Police serves as a stern warning to criminals attempting to operate within the country’s borders.
