Armed robbers cook, eat before US$2 500 heist

A terrifying incident unfolded in Gweru as a family had to endure a nightmarish experience when a gang of five intruders broke into their home. These daring robbers, armed with a machete and a knife, locked the family members into a single room, spending nearly four hours inside the house. During their time there, the burglars cooked and consumed a meal they found in the house, even offering the victims some of the food they had prepared.

Following their impromptu feast, the suspects proceeded to assault the occupants, ransacked the house, and demanded cash and valuables. The victims were then locked in one room while the robbers made off with approximately US$2,500 worth of cash, cellphones, and food items.

Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the incident, which occurred during the night on a Tuesday. The burglars broke into the home through a window. The ordeal began when a 52-year-old woman, who was sleeping with two other family members, heard strange noises around midnight. She went to investigate and was intercepted by the five men, who ordered her to return to her room.

The burglars then awakened the other two occupants and confined them to a single room. From there, the suspects conducted a search, seizing the victims' cellphones and locking them up. They proceeded to the kitchen, where they found some meat and began cooking. Some of the intruders relaxed in the living room, watching television.

After consuming the meal, the robbers ransacked the house and physically assaulted the victims while demanding money. During the ordeal, one of the suspects attempted to sexually assault a female victim unsuccessfully. In the end, the suspects fled the scene with US$300, two cellphones, and various groceries.

The authorities are currently searching for the suspects, who remain at large, as they launch a manhunt.