Hitch-Hiker Robbed of $17,000 Cash on Bulawayo-Harare Road
A shocking incident occurred on Saturday evening along the Bulawayo-Harare road as a hitch-hiker, Mr. Christopher Kunyaki (49), fell victim to a robbery by touts. Mr. Kunyaki, a cosmetics agent working for a Harare-based company, had just completed payments and deliveries in Bulawayo when the unfortunate incident transpired.
According to reports, Mr. Kunyaki was accosted by three unidentified men who forcibly took his pink satchel containing a staggering US$17,000 in cash. The robbers swiftly fled the scene, leaving Mr. Kunyaki stunned and deprived of his hard-earned money.
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National police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, provided details of the incident, stating that Mr. Kunyaki had arrived in Bulawayo accompanied by the company’s driver. Upon reaching the city, the driver dropped Mr. Kunyaki in the central business district and proceeded to Zvishavane for additional deliveries.
Assistant Commissioner Nyathi further explained that Mr. Kunyaki and the driver had planned to reunite in Gweru after completing their respective tasks. However, the unforeseen robbery disrupted Mr. Kunyaki’s journey and left him in a precarious situation.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the prevalent risks faced by individuals traveling with significant amounts of cash, especially in remote or less secure areas. Law enforcement authorities have launched an investigation into the robbery, urging anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in apprehending the culprits.
Mr. Kunyaki’s ordeal highlights the importance of heightened vigilance and caution, particularly when transporting valuable items. As investigations unfold, authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of citizens traversing the nation’s roads.
“Three unidentified male suspects who were touting confronted the complainant at a hiking spot and snatched a pink satchel containing US$17 775 from daily sales and fled,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.
He urged individuals to avoid carrying large amounts of cash in public, instead suggesting that they use trusted security transport companies or banks to handle the transportation of money.
“As police, we urge members of the public to desist from this culture of carrying such large amounts of money in public as they risk attracting criminals. There are ways in which people can discreetly transport their money without encountering any problems,” he said.
