1 dead, 2 arrested in police shootout in Bulawayo's Norwood suburb

One suspected armed robber was shot dead and two others arrested following a shootout with police in Norwood, Bulawayo, in the early hours of Tuesday.

The three suspects were reportedly under police surveillance in connection with five armed robbery cases allegedly committed in Umguza on October 18 and 19.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi identified the arrested suspects as Austin Nkomazana (23) and Nkosikhona Ndlovu (23), while their alleged accomplice, Average Ndlovu (23), also known as SaAaron, died following the shooting.

According to Nyathi, the suspects allegedly used machetes, axes and knives during the robbery spree.

In one incident, the gang allegedly attacked a woman and her three children at their home in Umguza, stealing US$2,000 and other valuables worth approximately US$2,460.

In another robbery on October 18, the suspects allegedly broke into a complainant's house and stole US$300 before fleeing in the victim's Honda Fit. The vehicle was later abandoned after being involved in a road accident.

Police subsequently tracked the suspects to Norwood, where a confrontation occurred.

Nyathi said police officers fired warning shots, but the suspects allegedly continued advancing towards them, prompting officers to open fire.

Average Ndlovu sustained a gunshot wound to the chest and was taken to United Bulawayo Hospitals, where he was pronounced dead on admission. His two alleged accomplices were arrested.

The police spokesperson warned criminal suspects against attacking officers carrying out their lawful duties, saying any such conduct would be met with a lawful and proportionate response.

Investigations into the five alleged robbery cases are continuing.