Robbers lay siege to Buena Vista suburb residents

Buena Vista, one of Bulawayo's upmarket suburbs, has been gripped by a spate of violent robberies, leaving residents fearful for their safety as organised gangs target homes in the dead of night.

According to locals, the criminal activity has intensified over the past two weeks, with some houses reportedly attacked more than once by the same groups. The robbers often strike after midnight, cutting through security fences, disabling lights, and forcing their way into homes while families sleep.

"We are under siege, that is the only way to describe it. These robbers are fearless. They broke into our neighbour's house around 2AM, demanded money and beat the husband before fleeing," said a resident who requested anonymity.

Several residents noted that the criminals appear to possess detailed knowledge of the area, often targeting poorly lit homes or isolated properties along the suburb's periphery. Fear and anxiety have become a nightly reality, with many residents taking turns staying awake after hearing footsteps, barking dogs, or unusual movements outside.

Some incidents have led to injuries, including attacks with iron bars when residents resisted. In one case, a family was held hostage as the gang ransacked their home.

Despite these reports, Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele said only one case has been officially recorded from the neighbourhood, involving the theft of four bicycles, two of which have been recovered.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi acknowledged that armed robberies are on the rise even as overall crime in Bulawayo has reportedly decreased by 38 percent. He said police have intensified patrols, focusing on known hot spots, and urged residents to secure their homes, avoid keeping large sums of cash, and report suspicious activity.

Neighbourhood watch teams in Buena Vista said they would increase visible patrols and collaborate with residents to alert authorities of potential threats. They also called for additional streetlights and surveillance cameras in poorly lit areas to deter criminal activity.

Residents expressed growing concern that the situation could escalate if immediate action is not taken. "This is no longer an ordinary crime. These people are organised, violent and determined. We need strong police intervention before someone gets killed," said one anxious homeowner.

As the suburb grapples with this wave of robberies, residents are calling for swift and decisive measures to restore safety and prevent further violence.