Bla Matsotsi remanded in custody

A suspected serial armed robber from Chitungwiza, Allouis Luciano, popularly known as "Bla Matsotsi," has been remanded in custody to November 5, 2025, following a string of violent crimes, including the stabbing of a heavily pregnant woman.

Luciano appeared before Chitungwiza magistrate Evelyn Mashavakure on Thursday and was remanded in custody as police continue investigations into several other cases he is allegedly linked to.

According to the State, on October 13, Luciano and his accomplices - who remain at large - attacked Obert Chamunorwa at Huruyadzo Shopping Centre in St Mary's. The gang reportedly brandished a knife, threatened to stab Chamunorwa, and robbed him of US$85.

The following day, Luciano allegedly confronted a pregnant woman, Memory Matanga, along Chitungwiza Road in the same suburb. He reportedly called her over to where he was standing, but when she ignored him, he followed and stabbed her in the palm before fleeing.

Matanga sustained a deep wound and later identified her attacker, leading to Luciano's arrest that same day. He was initially remanded to October 30 for trial.

Court records show that Luciano had previously been arrested on October 2 after allegedly attacking and threatening to stab his neighbour, Nocry Gahadzikwa, over an unpaid debt. During that arrest, he is said to have threatened to stab his mother and brother, and assaulted police officers who had come to apprehend him.

Although his mother later withdrew her complaint, Luciano was granted bail on October 10 but failed to return to court as scheduled.

Police sources in St Mary's confirmed that Luciano is linked to at least 15 other cases of attempted murder, robbery, and assault, though some victims have reportedly declined to press charges out of fear.

Three additional dockets - RRB 6618621, RRB 6618626, and RRB 6618551 - remain open at St Mary's Police Station, covering allegations of assault, robbery, and attempted murder.

Prosecutor Nyasha Nhoro appeared for the State.