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Nqobile Tshili, Chronicle Reporter

Thieves are reportedly terrorising female motorists in Bulawayo’s Mpopoma suburb where they open their vehicles when they stop at robot-controlled intersections and snatch handbags among other valuables.

The suspects who are yet to be apprehended are said to have started the robbing spree in April this year. 

The suspects target female motorists who will be driving alone at night. They pounce on them when they stop at intersections such as Hyde Park Road and Nketa Drive Road. 

Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube confirmed receiving reports of motorists losing cash, laptops, cellphones and other valuables at the robot-controlled intersections . 

“Police in Bulawayo are investigating a series of thefts from motor vehicles involving female motorists especially at the intersection of Hyde Park Road and Nketa Drive.  

“The criminals started terrorising the area in April this year. The criminals waylay victims who stop at the robot-controlled intersections,” said Insp Ncube. 

He said their first victim lost a Samsung cellphone, US$10 and a handbag which was on the passenger seat. 

Insp Ncube said another woman lost a a handbag, which had an Itel cellphone, spectacles, US$30, R850 and business cards.

He said a third victim lost a handbag with US$40 in June and another woman last month lost an HP laptop. Insp Ncube said recently another victim also lost a handbag with US$270 and a cellphone.

“In all the cases the criminals opened unlocked doors or took advantage of open windows to snatch handbags. 

“The total value stolen is US$810 and $13 800,” said Insp Ncube.

He urged motorists to lock their vehicles and shut windows especially when approaching robot-controlled intersections. 

Inspector Abednico Ncube

Insp Ncube said motorists should avoid putting their valuables in areas where they can easily be accessed by robbers.

He also appealed to members of the public who might have information which may lead to the arrest of the suspects to contact any nearest police station. —@nqotshili