Chivayo washes hands of Chimombe fraud case

In a shocking case of retribution, a suspected armed robber from Zimbabwe was found with both feet chopped off along the banks of the Limpopo River, where he reportedly targeted smugglers crossing to and from South Africa. The dismembered man, believed to be from the Renco Mine area in Masvingo, is suspected to have been attacked by individuals he may have previously victimized in his criminal activities.

Graphic images circulating on social media show the immobilized man lying on the ground with his severed feet beside him. A voice note accompanying the images described how he was caught and assaulted by his assailants near the river, with the note saying, "Look at what has happened on the SA side. There is a robber who has had his legs chopped off by the river."

Local sources initially reported that police had declined to transport him to the hospital, leaving him in the open by the river. However, subsequent updates indicated that the injured man was eventually taken to Musina Hospital in South Africa for medical treatment.

The incident sheds light on the violent dynamics along the Limpopo River, where various criminal gangs prey on people using informal crossing points to smuggle goods between Zimbabwe and South Africa. Despite the presence of security personnel from both countries, these criminal groups remain active, often living in secluded spots under bridges or remote areas along the border.

The South African Police Service has not yet commented on the incident.