Ecobank closes Bulawayo branch after armed robbers easily fled with over US$4 million… It took place in full view of police (VIDEO)

Bulawayo is reeling after a brazen armed robbery at an Ecobank branch on October 3rd, 2024, resulted in the theft of over US$4 million.

The incident, captured on shocking video footage circulating widely on social media, has left residents and businesses stunned and raised serious questions about security lapses.

The robbery unfolded with chilling efficiency during a routine cash collection. A Safeguard security van, having just collected several metal cash boxes from the Ecobank branch located at the corner of Fife Street and 9th Avenue, became the target of a well-organised gang. Eyewitnesses described the robbers as heavily built men who confidently approached the security team.

According to an eyewitness who spoke to the Sunday News, the robbers overpowered a group of five Safeguard Security guards, disarming them before seizing the cash boxes. The robbers allegedly took three AK47 firearms belonging to the guards. Remarkably, the heist involved at least four robbers wearing balaclavas, but one robber did not wear a disguise and even acted like a member of the public during the initial stages of the robbery. This same individual was later seen assisting in loading the boxes into the getaway vehicle.

The audacity of the crime is further highlighted by the fact that the robbery occurred during a weekly cash transit, a routine procedure that supposedly takes place on random days. Videos of the robbery show the robbers calmly loading the cash boxes into a waiting white Ford Ranger single-cab vehicle. One video captures a bystander’s incredulous question, “Where is the police?” as the robbers calmly complete their operation.

The getaway vehicle, described as a white Ford Ranger T6 single-cab, reportedly used a number plate belonging to a Mazda Demio. Despite the significant amount of cash involved and the use of firearms, there were no reported injuries or casualties during the robbery.

The scale of the theft is staggering. While initial police reports indicated a loss of US$4 million, a source claiming to be a bank manager later suggested the amount was closer to US$5 million, including a customer’s US$100,000 deposit in progress at the time of the robbery. This discrepancy only adds to the gravity of the situation.

The incident has prompted a swift response from Ecobank. In a statement released on Friday, October 4th, the bank announced the temporary closure of its Parkade Branch. The statement reassured customers that digital banking channels remain operational and encouraged the use of online and mobile banking services. Customers requiring in-branch services were directed to the Bradfield Branch.

In a statement released on Friday, October 4, the bank announced that customers can continue to conduct their banking transactions seamlessly through its digital channels during the closure. Reads the statement:

“We regret to inform you that our Parkade Branch will be temporarily closed on Friday October 4, 2024, following the armed robbery incident that occurred on October 3, 2024. The safety and security of our customers and staff remain our utmost priority. During this closure, we encourage you to utilize our digital channels for all banking transactions. Please note that our online and mobile banking services are available for your convenience.

“For any in-branch services, please visit our Bradfield Branch located at Zonkizizwe Shopping Centre where our team will be ready to assist you. We appreciate your understanding and support during this time. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact your relationship manager or customer service team on email ALLEZW CO***********@ec*****.com/as****@ec*****.com or call/WhatsApp 263771397171 and Toll free 08080157 (Econet numbers only).”

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), in a statement by spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the robbery and indicated that investigations are underway.

Commissioner Nyathi stated: “The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms that investigations are in full swing in connection with an alleged armed robbery case which occurred late this afternoon on 3 October 2024 at a financial institution at corner 9th Avenue and Fife Street, Bulawayo, when a cash-in-transit security team was approached by six suspects.

“Initial indications are that US$4 000 000 cash has been stolen. The manner in which this incident occurred showed an element of inside job or leakage of information. As investigations intensify, the police assures the public that the law will certainly take its course without fear or favour.”

Commissioner Nyathi’s statement alluded to the possibility of an inside job, suggesting that the robbers may have had prior knowledge of the cash transit schedule. This suspicion is further fuelled by the robbers’ calm and controlled actions, as depicted in the circulating videos. CCTV footage from the scene shows robbers who appeared unhurried and in complete control of the situation.

Adding to the public outcry, a video has gone viral showing a police officer walking past the robbery scene without intervening. Although his face is partially obscured, his police hat is clearly visible. This apparent inaction has further fueled public anger and criticism of the police response.

📹 BANK ROBBERY: Watch closely as a police officer – unarmed and helpless – walks past armed robbery scene at Bulawayo city centre branch of Ecobank at around 3.30PM today pic.twitter.com/DeRECFlVMv

— ZimLive (@zimlive) October 3, 2024