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Peter Matika, [email protected]

IN a relentless effort to combat the rising incidents of armed robberies, police have scored yet another milestone, smashing a suspected seven-member syndicate that had been terrorising Bulawayo residents.

The recent operation is part of the police’s ongoing commitment to ensure safety and security of citizens in the face of escalating criminal activities.

In the latest milestone, police have arrested Nduduzo Mthethwa (46), Butho Ndlovu (28), Zibusiso Ndlovu (27), Tyson Taylor Ndlovu (29), Zibusiso Manungwa (28) Nqobile Nxumalo (29) and Lewis Mbeli (28) who have since appeared in court.

The syndicate appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Ms Sibonginkosi Mkandla at the weekend facing several charges of armed robbery and were remanded in custody to December 13.

The accused persons are represented by Mr Bob Siansole of Shenje and Company and Mr Tinashe Runganga of Tanaka Law Chambers.

Prosecuting, Mr Dominic Moyo, said the gang committed a series of crimes in and around Bulawayo stealing cash and valuables.

They would allegedly pounce on unsuspecting residents’ homes and rob them at gunpoint.

In one incident Mr Moyo said on November 1, 2024 this year the gang pounced at a house in Newton West suburb, where they attacked one Princess Sibanda.

“They gained entry into the house through an open kitchen door, armed with an unidentified pistol, axe and pick handle, which they used to threaten Sibanda and forcibly stole her property,” he said.

Mr Moyo said the gang, using the same modus operandi raided a family in Woodville suburb.

“They gained entry into the house through an open kitchen door, armed with pistols, which they used to threaten Caroline Bongi Richards and forcibly took two wristwatches and a Samsung cellphone with an American sim card,” said Mr Moyo.

They went on to attack Vincent Nathan Richards and stole US$2 700 and an XPS13 laptop, a maroon Samson suitcase containing a clear pill box, white washcloth, blue washcloth, short livergy, black packing bag, athletic socks, black underwear, blue champion short, among other valuables.

National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, yesterday said the recent crackdown on the armed robbery syndicates is a testament to the force’s unwavering dedication to curbing criminal activities and maintaining law and order in the city.

He would not be drawn to disclose how the gang was arrested but emphasized the importance of such operations in sending a strong message to criminals.

“We are fully committed to ensuring the safety of all residents. The dismantling of this armed robbery syndicate is a clear demonstration of our determination to tackle crime head-on and bring perpetrators to justice,” said Comm Nyathi.

The police operation, which involved meticulous planning and co-ordination, resulted in the arrest of several individuals suspected to be members of the armed robbery syndicate, he added.

Comm Nyathi said police also managed to confiscate a substantial amount of stolen goods and weapons, further disrupting the criminal activities of the syndicate.

He commended the diligent efforts of the police officers involved in the operation, highlighting their professionalism and dedication to carrying out their duties in the face of adversity.

“The safety and well-being of our citizens are paramount, and I commend the police for their tireless efforts in ensuring that our community remains a safe place for all residents,” said Comm Nyathi.

Commissioner Paul Nyathi

“With the recent success in dismantling another armed robbery syndicate, the police are determined to continue their crackdown on criminal elements and maintaining peace and security.”

The rise in US dollar cash transactions has led to a spike in violent crimes, making the country a prime target for armed robbers. Businesses, banks, and individuals are now more susceptible to daring attacks on cash-in-transit vehicles, shops, and homes.

Authorities recently reported an alarming 11 percent surge in robberies, prompting the police to develop and implement strategies to combat crime and restore public trust. Several high-profile incidents have underscored the growing threat.

In Bulawayo’s city centre, Ecobank was recently robbed by a six-person group, with criminals making off with US$4 million. Last week, a Cowdray Park family’s home was raided by armed robbers who stole over US$25 000. Also last week, armed robbers hijacked a luxury vehicle from a man in Luveve suburb’s Chigumira Shopping Centre, although the vehicle was later recovered in Gwanda, and three suspects were arrested.

Ecobank robbery

Other notable incidents include a 2022 robbery at ABC Auctions in Harare, in which criminals stole a staggering US$1,4 million, and a January 2021 heist on the Harare-Chinhoyi Road, in which robbers ambushed a cash-in-transit vehicle and made off with US$2,775 million. Similarly, in Ruwa, armed thieves stole US$30 000 from Thornicroft Primary School. These incidents highlight the alarming frequency and audacity of armed robberies across the country.