Carjackers on the loose, police launch manhunt

POLICE in Matabeleland South have launched a manhunt for two carjackers who robbed a 28-year-old man of his Honda Citi vehicle.

Matabeleland South police spokesperson Inspector Tafanana Dzirutwe said the two men pounced on an unsuspecting Mr Enock Takaedza on 30 May and stole his vehicle with registration number ABZ 7267.

"At about 8 pm, two males approached Mr Takaedza who was parked at Gweru OK Supermarket and said they wanted to hire his taxi to take them to a certain spot that is about 30 kilometres from Shangani Business Centre," said Insp Dzirutwe.

He said the two men promised to pay the $30 fare on arrival.

"One of them sat on the front seat while the other took the  back seat. On their way, the driver stopped at Shangani Business Centre before proceeding with the journey," said Insp Dzirutwe.

He said one of the men told the driver that he had passed their destination and they had to be taken back.

"As he was about to make a U-turn the man at the back pulled the driver's seat belt and choked him," said Insp Dzirutwe.
He said the other man who was seated in the front  seat hit the driver with a beer bottle once on the right eye.

"They then dragged him out of the car before speeding off. A report was made in Gweru, but the case was later referred to Fort Rixon Police Station," said Insp Dzirutwe.

He appealed to members of the public who might have information leading to the arrest of the two men to call the police on 0284 22810 or contact their nearest police station.

"We would also like to encourage taxi drivers to be on the look-out for such situations, as they are advised not to exceed the 40km radius stipulation," said Insp Dzirutwe.