Five individuals suspected of robbing a vehicle while posing as police officers and stealing US$193,900 have been apprehended.
The heist took place on Sunday at the 136-kilometer mark along the Harare-Masvingo highway in the Makumimavi area, Chivhu.
The suspects, identified as Richard Banda (23), Tawananyasha Nyengerai (21), Lionel Chipenzi (25), Harrison Chiinge (24), and Calos Muwani (23), were arrested following the robbery.
Police managed to recover US$100,442 of the stolen amount.
The suspects pretended to be police officers, stopped the vehicle, and seized a bag containing cash and cellphones before escaping in a Nissan Note, registration number AGN 2303.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi stated:
“Five suspects have been arrested in connection with a staged armed robbery that occurred on August 4, 2024, at the 136-kilometer mark along the Harare-Masvingo Road, in the Makumimavi area, Chivhu.
“The suspects are charged with stealing US$193,900 and a cellphone from a Toyota Hiace traveling from Bulawayo to Harare. The vehicle was driven by one of the suspects, Banda.”
Investigations led to Banda’s arrest, during which he implicated his cousin Nyengerai and the other suspects, resulting in their capture.
The arrests led to the recovery of US$100,442 in cash.
Further inquiries revealed that Banda had orchestrated the robbery with his relatives and associates after obtaining travel information from his employer.
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