A man from Mutoko experienced a distressing incident on Thursday night when two robbers broke into his home and made off with over US$10,000.
Armed with a pistol and a stone, the criminals attacked the victim before stealing the cash, along with two cellphones and two helmets. Fortunately, the stolen cellphones and helmets were later discovered discarded in the yard. The Mutoko police are currently investigating the robbery, which took place on November 9, 2023, at a residence in Machipisa Village, Nechombo, Mudzi.
In another incident, the Karoi police are looking into an unlawful entry and theft case that occurred at a shop specializing in selling stock feed, hardware, and farming implements in Chiedza. Unknown perpetrators gained access to the shop through a window and proceeded to blow open a cash safe, stealing US$1,850 in cash.
The recent successes in capturing members of robbery gangs have prompted the police to mobilize additional resources and establish specialized units to combat criminal syndicates. Last week, two robbers were killed in separate gunfights with the police in Harare, while their accomplices were apprehended. These individuals were part of a notorious gang that had been terrorizing families and businesses across the country. Notably, one of the individuals arrested was also implicated in the ZB Bank heist, where US$2.7 million was stolen in 2021.
Gerald Rutizira, who had been sought after his release on bail, was recaptured alongside Brighton Mangondo as part of a new gang responsible for a series of crimes. Unfortunately, a third member of the gang, Tanaka Living Nyaude Madzima, died from injuries sustained during a shootout with the police in Harare’s Riddleridge area. The arrests led to the recovery of a 12-bore shotgun at Rutizira’s residence and the seizure of firearms and ammunition at Madzima’s place.
Additionally, police also closed in on yet another gang of four, plus a fifth who died in a shootout, that robbed a motorist of a cellphone, iPad and US$250 cash last week in Southerton.
The four have so far been identified as Paul Chinake alias Pauros, Lovejoy alias Shorty, Teddie and Betto.
Last Saturday, police shot and killed a fifth member of this gang after an exchange of gunfire in Chitungwiza’s Unit A suburb.
Law enforcement agencies are actively working to curb criminal activities and ensure the safety and security of the public.
