Robbers Target People at Prayer Mountains
Over the weekend, a distressing incident occurred at Mutemwa Prayer Mountain in Mutoko as robbers targeted unsuspecting pilgrims engaged in prayer.
Father Salicio Mukuwe, the Priest in Charge at the Centre, recounted the unfortunate events in a statement. He revealed that in two separate incidents, robbers targeted women, stealing their belongings. The incidents were promptly reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Mutoko.
“We regret to announce two robbery incidents which occurred on April 21, 2024, in the early hours of Sunday at Mutemwa Leprosy Catholic and Care Centre Mountain,” Father Mukuwe said.
In the first incident, five ladies fell victim to theft as their bags were stolen while they were immersed in prayer. The second incident occurred at station 2 on the mountain, where six women were robbed while ascending.
According to Fr. Mukuwe, the suspects approached the pilgrims, inquiring about the presence of the centre’s guards. Upon receiving an answer, the robbers demanded the victims to lie down and forcibly took their belongings, primarily cell phones.
“Unfortunately the bags had been left unattended and the ladies did not report the theft to anyone.
“They only made a report upon hearing the second incident from the second group of women,” he added.
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As of now, the perpetrators remain at large while the police continue their investigation into the matter.
In response to these troubling events, the centre has implemented additional security measures to ensure the safety and protection of everyone within the institution.
“Please note that a guard will be patrolling every Friday and Saturday from 6 pm to 6 am with immediate effect.
“We regret this incident which happened at our place,” Fr Mukuwe said.
