In a daring display of criminal audacity, three notorious armed robbers have been handed substantial prison sentences. Francis Takura, Virimai Nyandoro, and Shine Tanaka Nyamhunga were convicted and sentenced by a Harare Magistrate on charges related to a series of brazen armed robberies.
In a shocking incident that unfolded on the 5th of November 2021, the first accused person, accompanied by three now-deceased accomplices and two others still at large, targeted the home of their first victim. Masked and armed with an AK 47 rifle and an unidentified pistol, they held the terrified homeowner and his wife at gunpoint, proceeding to ransack their residence.
The criminals made off with a substantial sum of USD1,550 in cash, along with several valuable items, including a 9mm Norinco pistol. Forcing the couple into their Toyota Hilux GD6, the assailants then drove to the victim’s workplace, where they made off with an additional USD10,000.
Returning to the first complainant’s home, the robbers proceeded to assault the second victim, who was sleeping in a cottage on the property. After subjecting him to a vicious attack, they seized his possessions and made their escape in the stolen Toyota Hilux GD6. The motor vehicle was recovered on the 6th of December 2021, dumped at Newlands shops. The total value stolen was USD55 750 and 46 050 was recovered.
On the 6th of December 2021 the accused persons went to the third complainants home where they held the complainant’s family hostage at gunpoint before taking cash and valuables amounting to USD1 600. The accused persons exchanged gunshots with the owner of the house, Joseph Nemaisa leading to the death of three accomplices.
The first accused person was arrested on the 7th of December 2021 and he led to the arrest of the 2nd and third accused person.
The first accused person was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for count one of which 2 years were suspended for 5yrs. A further 2 years was suspended on condition of restitution. He was sentenced to a further 12 years imprisonment for count two of which 2 years were suspended for 5years. A further 2 years was suspended on condition of restitution.
All three accused persons were sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for count three of which 2 years were suspended for 5yrs. 1 year was suspended on condition of restitution.
As the gavel fell, justice prevailed, sending a resounding message that armed robbery will not be tolerated within Zimbabwe’s borders. The National Prosecuting Authority’s successful prosecution and the subsequent sentencing of these dangerous criminals serve as a testament to the unwavering commitment of law enforcement to protect the lives and property of its citizens.
