Suspect wanted for killing 2 police detectives arrested

Daniel Munyanyi, the man suspected of killing two detectives during a shootout in Zaka, has been arrested, while four of his alleged accomplices appeared in court in Harare facing armed robbery and attempted murder charges.

The fatal gun battle occurred in Ndume Village, Zaka, on Sunday and claimed the lives of Detective Sergeant Bernard Chindeke (38) and Detective Constable Casper Antonio McKenzie Chitsowe (42).

National police spokesperson Paul Nyathi confirmed Munyanyi's arrest in a statement, saying he was apprehended on Monday afternoon at Nyika Area in Bikita, Masvingo Province, where he had allegedly been hiding.

"The arrest was effected by members of the public. The firearm used in the commissioning of the murder cases has also been recovered. The ZRP commends the people in Nyika for working together with the police to effect the arrest," Nyathi said.

Meanwhile, Aphel Muzanenhamo Chiro (34), Nashe Gasva (18), Hughsters Chiro (24) and Spencer Madimutsa appeared before Harare magistrate Jessie Kufa. The State alleges the quartet was arrested at the scene following the Zaka shootout.

Prosecutors further claim the group had been involved in a string of armed robberies in Harare prior to the deadly incident.

The court heard that on February 27 at around 2am, the suspects allegedly targeted Juliet Chapura (31) of Retreat, Waterfalls. It is alleged they armed themselves with a pistol and iron bars, wore police uniforms and balaclavas, and forced entry into her home. They allegedly pointed a firearm at her and demanded cash, taking US$15 before searching the house for more money.

Before leaving, they allegedly told her they had shot her father, Gift Chapura (61), at his home in Rafingora. The total value stolen in that incident was US$30, and nothing was recovered.

In a separate incident on February 28 at around 2am, the gang allegedly targeted Wellington Mukandabvi (54) at Polokwane Bar in Vantage, Spitzkop, Harare. Armed with a pistol, knife and taser, and wearing balaclavas, they allegedly entered the bar, closed the doors and demanded cash. One of the suspects allegedly took US$700 from a bucket at the selling point.

During the robbery, patrons reportedly attempted to apprehend the suspects, resulting in a violent confrontation. Tichaona Tafadzwa Chitengu was allegedly shot once in the left buttock, while Rumbidzayi Katembwe, Please Magada and Tendayi Chikwiyo were allegedly stabbed on different parts of their bodies. The suspects allegedly fired multiple shots before fleeing through a back door to a getaway vehicle.

Property valued at US$1,000 was reportedly stolen, with items worth US$100 recovered following the arrests.

The State opposed bail, citing the seriousness of the offences. Magistrate Kufa advised the accused to approach the High Court for bail as they are facing Third Schedule offences.