Seven nabbed linked to 17 robberies

Itai Mazire

Police detectives busted a tighty-knit syndicate of robbers who prowled over a period of four months pouncing on unsuspecting commuters after offering them lifts and rob them off their valuables before dumping them.

National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the development saying the gang committed multiple robberies in Harare and its surrounds.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of seven suspects, Tawanda Macheka (30), Dennis Manyonga (34), Kudzanai Tirivani (31), Leslie Mudenda (31), Loreen Mundetani (27), Kenneth Pick (39), and Nyasha Gweshe (33), in connection with a series of robbery cases which occurred in Harare and surrounding areas between July 2025 and November 2025.

“On 20 November 2025, detectives from CID Vehicle Theft Squad, acting on received information, tracked and arrested the suspects at their residences. “Investigations reveal that the suspects used different vehicles to target unsuspecting commuters, posing as genuine motorists travelling to the victims’ intended destinations,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

He said the gang would offer lifts to the victims and during the journey, rob them of cash, cellphones and other valuables before dumping them and fleeing the scene.

“The suspects are currently linked to 17 robbery cases, all involving a similar modus operandi where they would ask victims to close car doors with both hands, providing an opportunity to search for and steal valuables.

“Following the arrests, the police has recovered several smartphones, clothing items and handbags which were allegedly stolen during the robberies,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

He said The Zimbabwe Republic Police applauds members of the public for providing credible information that led to the arrest of the suspects.