Family robbed US$1800, cellphone

A family in Mutasa was left traumatised after two unidentified assailants broke into their home and robbed them of US$1,854 and a cellphone, police have confirmed.

The incident occurred on the evening of May 6, 2025, around 8pm, just a day after Emma Muchoko (41) had received her share of proceeds from the sale of a family house in Masvingo.

According to Manicaland police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, the suspects forcibly entered the house, which is still under construction, and threatened the occupants with violence.

"Muchoko had travelled to Mutare for shopping with her children on May 5, after receiving an initial US$2,500 from the sale of their inherited property," said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka. "Her husband did not return home with them, as he proceeded to Penhalonga where he works."

On the night of the attack, Muchoko and her three children were asleep in a single-room structure when the two intruders struck.

"They broke down the wooden door and grabbed Muchoko and her 16-year-old son, Kelvin Manyumwa, by the neck. They threatened to kill them if they did not hand over any cash," Chinyoka said.

Fearing for their lives, Muchoko surrendered US$1,854 in cash and a Huawei cellphone valued at US$45. The robbers fled into the night and remain at large.

Police from ZRP Mutasa responded to the call and attended the scene, but no arrests or recoveries have been made so far.

Assistant Inspector Chinyoka urged the public to exercise caution and avoid disclosing information about money in their possession, especially following large transactions.

He also appealed to anyone with information regarding the robbery to report to their nearest police station.