Armed robbers terrorise Sai Mart in bold daylight heist

In a chilling daylight robbery that has left the Bulawayo community shaken, three armed robbers stormed Sai Mart Supermarket yesterday morning, making off with an undisclosed amount of cash and mugging a security guard in the process.

The brazen attack occurred just before 10AM, at a time when the store was already bustling with shoppers. Witnesses say the robbers pretended to be regular customers before drawing a firearm and demanding everyone remain still. A single gunshot was fired, reportedly ricocheting off a metal beam, sending terrified staff and customers diving for cover.

Initial reports had estimated that US$2,000 was stolen, but the exact figure remains unconfirmed as police continue their investigations.

During the raid, the security guard stationed at the entrance was held at gunpoint and searched. The robbers made off with his wallet containing US$70 and personal documents, including his national ID.

"They took everything from him - his cash and identity cards. He's traumatised, not just by the robbery, but by knowing these armed men now have access to his personal information," a store worker said.

The National Police Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the incident, saying investigations are underway and police are working to identify and arrest the culprits.

"We are investigating that incident and will release further details in due course," said Comm Nyathi.

Eyewitnesses say the robbery was carried out swiftly and with precision, with the suspects fleeing on foot into nearby streets before authorities arrived. The swift escape suggests the robbers may have planned their routes carefully to avoid capture.

A vendor operating outside Sai Mart expressed shock at how easily the criminals executed the attack.

"It's frightening. They just walked in with a gun and took control like it was nothing. That shop is usually packed - anything could have happened," the vendor said.

The Sai Mart heist is the latest in a string of armed robberies plaguing Bulawayo, where both businesses and private individuals have increasingly come under attack.

Police are urging shop owners to strengthen security measures, including investing in CCTV systems, panic buttons, and proper surveillance.

"This incident should serve as a wake-up call for businesses," a police source said. "Robbers are becoming more daring, and it's important for companies to protect both staff and customers."

Authorities are appealing to members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or have information leading to the arrest of the suspects to come forward.

As police close in on the suspects, Sai Mart's ordeal stands as a stark reminder: in today's climate, even a busy supermarket in broad daylight is not safe from violent crime.