A 25-year-old Bulawayo man, Thomas Dube, has pleaded guilty to armed robbery following a night-time attack on a Nketa couple’s home. Appearing before Bulawayo magistrate Joseph Mabeza this week, Dube admitted his involvement in the robbery, a crime that saw him and his accomplices steal cash and cell phones from their victims.
Representing himself in court, Dube offered a stark explanation for his actions: “I did it because I desperately needed money to buy stuff for my child,” he stated, adding that he was unaware his accomplices would be armed during the planned attack.
The incident unfolded on 7 August 2024, at approximately 2:30 AM. Dube, along with accomplices identified as Kelvin Masuku, Sylvester, and Gerald (all still at large), forcibly entered the home of Tapiwanashe Tafireyi, 39, and his wife, Delight.
Using an iron bar, they gained entry and proceeded to the couple’s bedroom. Armed with a pistol, one of the suspects allegedly cocked the weapon and demanded money from Delight. She initially handed over US$200, but the robbers demanded more.
Tafireyi then instructed his wife to give them a further US$3,600 and ZAR 6,000, which were hidden in a jacket behind the door. The robbers subsequently fled the scene with the cash and four Samsung cell phones.
However, Dube’s escape attempt was short-lived. Tafireyi’s cousins apprehended him amidst the ensuing commotion. Police investigations at the scene yielded an unused bullet and a crowbar, further incriminating Dube and his accomplices. The total value of the stolen items is estimated at US$5,800 and ZAR 6,000.
The case highlights the escalating problem of armed robbery in Bulawayo and the desperation driving some individuals to commit such crimes. Dube’s plea of guilty, while acknowledging his responsibility, offers little solace to the victims who suffered a terrifying ordeal in their own home.
