Several businesses in Bulawayo were targeted by armed robbers over the weekend who made off with thousands of US dollars in cash.
According to police, six robbers attacked security guards at two sports betting shops in Entumbane and stole US$4,500 and ZAR25,000 from on-site safes.
In a separate robbery, thieves broke into a hardware store at Spar Complex on Queen Lozikeyi Street and escaped with ZAR13,151 and $9,631 in US dollars.
Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, a police spokesperson, said police are actively investigating the two robbery gangs. No suspects have been identified or arrested at this time.
Robberies and violent crime have been on the rise in Zimbabwe in recent years amid a severe economic downturn. Many businesses are now installing additional security measures like safes, alarms and CCTV cameras.
However, well-organized robbery gangs continue to target businesses seen as holding significant amounts of US dollars in cash. The latest robberies in Bulawayo show that even malls and shopping complexes are not completely safe.
Police are urging all businesses to review and improve their security systems and procedures to minimize the risk of being targeted by armed criminals. Workers are also advised to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious persons or activity.
