The Zimbabwe Red Cross Society office in Gweru was robbed early Friday morning by three suspects who overpowered the single security guard on duty. According to police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, the robbers stole over US$16,000 worth of cash and equipment after tying up the guard.
Inspector Mahoko said the robbery occurred around 3am when the guard heard the main entrance door, which had been locked, being forced open. Three unidentified individuals then entered the building and broke into the manager’s office, stealing three laptop computers. They confronted the guard, wrestled her phone away, and briefly fled after she sprayed two of them with pepper spray.
However, the thieves soon returned with another accomplice still inside. Mahoko reported they proceeded to assault the guard, binding her hands and legs with wires and straps. Next they pried open the accountant’s office safe, detonating an explosive to access the US$1,502 cash inside. Additional stolen items included a cell phone, mini projector, adapter and solar battery.
The battered guard sounded the alarm after freeing herself. The total value of cash and property taken was estimated at US$16,150. Remarkably, US$5,500 worth of items were later abandoned outside and recovered.
“The total value stolen is US$16 150 and property worth US$5 500 was recovered after being left outside. Investigations are going on and we appeal for assistance from the public in the hunt for the criminals behind this case,” said Insp Mahoko.
