Police smash armed robbery syndicate in Bulawayo

In a significant breakthrough, Zimbabwean police have dismantled a seven-member armed robbery syndicate that had been terrorizing residents of Bulawayo. The arrests come amid heightened efforts to curb rising incidents of violent crime linked to increased US dollar cash transactions.

The accused - Nduduzo Mthethwa (46), Butho Ndlovu (28), Zibusiso Ndlovu (27), Tyson Taylor Ndlovu (29), Zibusiso Manungwa (28), Nqobile Nxumalo (29), and Lewis Mbeli (28) - appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Ms. Sibonginkosi Mkandla over the weekend. They face multiple charges of armed robbery and have been remanded in custody until December 13.

Prosecutor Mr. Dominic Moyo outlined the gang's modus operandi, detailing a series of armed home invasions in Bulawayo suburbs, including Newton West and Woodville.

In one incident on November 1, 2024, the syndicate allegedly entered Princess Sibanda's Newton West home through an open kitchen door. Armed with a pistol, axe, and pick handle, they threatened her and stole valuables.

Another attack in Woodville targeted the Richards family, where the suspects reportedly used pistols to intimidate victims, stealing cash, electronics, and personal belongings, including US$2,700, a laptop, wristwatches, and other valuables.

National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, praised the operation as a testament to the force's commitment to public safety. While declining to elaborate on the specifics of the arrests, he emphasized the significance of coordinated efforts in dismantling organized crime networks.

"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," Comm. Nyathi said.

Police reportedly confiscated stolen goods and weapons during the operation, disrupting the syndicate's activities.

The arrests come amid a surge in violent crimes fueled by widespread US dollar cash transactions. Authorities have reported an 11% rise in robberies, with criminals targeting businesses, banks, and individuals.

Recent high-profile incidents in Bulawayo include: A US$4 million heist at Ecobank in the city centre by a six-member gang. A Cowdray Park family robbed of US$25,000 in their home. A luxury vehicle hijacked in Luveve and later recovered in Gwanda, leading to three arrests.

These crimes follow a string of nationwide robberies, such as the infamous 2022 ABC Auctions heist in Harare, where US$1.4 million was stolen, and a 2021 cash-in-transit robbery on the Harare-Chinhoyi Road, involving US$2.775 million.

The rise in armed robberies has prompted law enforcement to intensify operations, develop strategic responses, and collaborate with the public to restore trust. Comm. Nyathi reaffirmed the police's resolve to root out criminal elements and maintain peace.

"With the recent success in dismantling another armed robbery syndicate, the police are determined to continue their crackdown on criminal elements and maintain peace and security," he said.

The arrests signal a strong message to would-be offenders as authorities step up efforts to safeguard communities and combat Zimbabwe's escalating crime wave.