Bulawayo man hires gang to rob elderly diasporan employer

A Bulawayo man has been accused of masterminding a robbery, enlisting a gang to target an elderly relative of his employer who had recently returned from the United States, allegedly stealing $5,000 in cash and valuables at gunpoint.

The suspect, Lewis Mbeli (28), reportedly collaborated with Tyson Moyo (29), Zibusiso Ndlovu (28), Zibusiso Manungwa (29), and Nqobile Nxumalo (29) to rob 70-year-old Caroline Richards, who had arrived from the diaspora. Prosecutors allege Mbeli tipped off the gang, claiming Richards was in possession of significant cash.

According to court documents, the robbery occurred at Richards' home in Woodville. The suspects coordinated the heist, with Mbeli stepping outside under the pretense of feeding dogs, only to re-enter the home, pretending to be a victim after being "forced" inside by the assailants.

Prosecutor Dominic Moyo told the court that Mbeli and the gang demanded money from the family, stealing $2,700 in cash, cell phones, a laptop, clothing, and other items.

The suspects appeared before Bulawayo Regional Magistrate Sibonginkosi Mkandla on six counts of armed robbery. They were advised to apply for bail at the High Court and remain in custody. Defense attorneys Bob Siansole and Tinashe Runganga represented the accused.

In a related case, two additional suspects, Nduduzo Mthethwa (46) and Butho Ndlovu (28), appeared in court for allegedly orchestrating another robbery involving the same gang.

Prosecutors allege Mthethwa informed the gang that his employers in Newton West were wealthy, suggesting they stage a heist. To carry out the plan, Mthethwa and accomplices reportedly lured the husband to a bar to create an opportunity for the robbery.

Mbeli and others allegedly broke into the house, stealing cash, electronics, jewelry, and other valuables worth $1,500.

Magistrate Mkandla remanded all suspects in custody until December 13. Investigations into the cases are ongoing.