2 Zimbabweans arrested over Botswana robbery

Two Zimbabwean nationals have been arrested in Botswana in connection with a robbery in which three businessmen were allegedly robbed of more than P375,000 (about US$27,000) in cash and property valued at over P80,000.

The Botswana Police Service (BPS) identified the suspects as Donald Sibanda, 42, and Lyghton Nembaware, 39, who were arrested alongside Bonnie Secha, 42, a Botswana national.

According to police, the robbery took place in Maun on 5 June 2026.

The BPS said Sibanda and Nembaware were arrested on 19 August, while Secha was arrested on 22 August following intelligence gathering and investigations into the case.

Police said the two Zimbabwean suspects were already on the BPS wanted list in connection with several other outstanding criminal cases.

These allegedly include robbery, break-ins and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, with cases having been reported in Gaborone, Mogoditshane and Francistown.

Investigations also established that Nembaware had been declared a prohibited immigrant in Botswana in 2007, according to the BPS.

All three suspects appeared before the Maun Magistrates' Court on 25 August, where they were charged with one count of robbery.

They were remanded in custody pending further investigations and are expected to appear again in court on 8 September 2026.

The arrests come as the Botswana Police Service steps up efforts to tackle organised and violent crime.

The BPS said sustained intelligence gathering and investigations were assisting police in dismantling criminal networks and bringing wanted suspects before the courts.

Police have also appealed to members of the public to continue providing information that could assist investigations and strengthen community safety.

The allegations against the three suspects have not been tested in court. They remain innocent until proven guilty.