SANYATI – In a brazen heist reminiscent of a Hollywood thriller, an armed security guard has vanished after looting a staggering US$134,000 and R33,800 from ZB Bank Sanyati. The incident, which unfolded on Saturday afternoon, has left the banking sector reeling in shock and disbelief.
The suspect, identified as Samson Mahohoma (46) of 118 Arda Compound, Sanyati, was employed by Peace Security firm. He was on duty at the bank when he allegedly stormed the cash room, armed with his service rifle, while bank staff were counting the day’s takings.
According to a police memo, ZB Bank Sanyati branch manager Rufaro Lugundiya (43) had closed the bank for the day and instructed all staff to gather in the cash room to account for the money. It was during this routine procedure that Mahohoma allegedly barged into the vault, ordering everyone to lie on the floor.
The shocked staff, caught completely off guard, complied with Mahohoma’s demands. He then proceeded to loot the cash, stuffing US$134,000 and R33,800 into a sack. To ensure his escape, he ordered all bank employees to surrender their cellphones and keys.
With the loot in hand, Mahohoma swiftly left the room, locking the doors behind him before fleeing the scene. The total value stolen was US$134,000 and R33,800, and nothing has been recovered.
The incident has sparked widespread concern about security at financial institutions in Zimbabwe. The audacity of the robbery, carried out by a security guard entrusted with protecting the bank’s assets, has raised serious questions about the effectiveness of security measures in place.
The police have launched an investigation into the incident, with officers from ZRP Sanyati investigating the case under RRB 5954912. They are currently pursuing all leads to locate Mahohoma and recover the stolen money.
The incident has also highlighted the vulnerability of financial institutions to internal threats. Just last week, Fawcett Security lost over US$110,000 and R1.2 million to armed robbers who were working with an insider who provided the robbers with all security information regarding the operations of the company.
While security measures often focus on external threats, this robbery demonstrates the importance of robust internal controls and thorough background checks on employees, particularly those entrusted with access to sensitive areas and large sums of cash.
The ZB Bank Sanyati branch remains closed as investigations continue. The bank has assured customers that their accounts are safe and that they are working closely with the police to ensure the swift apprehension of the suspect.
Police are urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of Samson Mahohoma to contact the nearest police station. They are also reminding businesses and individuals to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
