Bulawayo hit by wave of armed robberies

Bulawayo residents have been left living in fear after three armed robbery incidents rocked the city in a single day this week, leaving victims traumatised and police racing to track down the suspects.

Bulawayo acting police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Thandekile Ndlovu confirmed the incidents, which all took place on Wednesday within hours of each other.

In the first case, a 34-year-old Nkulumane 12 resident was carjacked by two armed men. "The suspects, armed with pistols, fired shots into the air before making off with the victim's vehicle, which contained cash and personal belongings worth US$7 030," said Ndlovu.

Later, around 8pm, two masked men stormed an apartment in the city centre, tied up the 37-year-old occupant, and stole US$5 000 and two cellphones.

An hour later in Hillside, three armed suspects overpowered a security guard, tied him up, and stole about US$6 000 after forcing their way into a house.

Police have appealed to the public for information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects and the recovery of the stolen vehicle. "The police are working tirelessly to investigate these incidents and ensure the safety of Bulawayo residents," Ndlovu said.