Police nab Luveve armed robber

Itai Mazire

Police in Bulawayo have arrested a suspected armed robber linked to a string of violent break-ins that terrorised residents in Luveve and Cowdray Park on 20 December 2025.

Bulawayo Police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele confirmed the development, saying a manhunt for two other suspects has since been launched.

“Police confirm the arrest of Themba Ncube, a 25-year-old male adult of Magwegwe North, Bulawayo, in connection with armed robbery cases that occurred in Luveve 5 and Cowdray Park, Bulawayo.

“The accused person and his accomplices, Joseph Phiri, a 38-year-old male adult of Magwegwe North, Bulawayo, and Oscar Ndlovu, who are still at large, were terrorising residents in Luveve and Cowdray Park by breaking into their houses at night while they were sleeping,” said Inspector Msebele.

She said the trio used iron bars to force open doors to gain entry into houses while armed with knives and a pistol.

“Once inside the house, they would assault the complainants and threaten to kill them while demanding cash and valuables. They robbed four different houses, getting away with valuables such as cellphones and cash amounting to USD 920.

“On 23 December 2025 at about 0500 hours, police received information that the accused persons were near Emakhandeni Secondary School.

“Following the leads, police spotted the suspects, who fled. A chase ensued, leading to the arrest of Themba Ncube, who was interviewed and admitted to having committed the offences,” she said.

Inspector Msebele thanked members of the public for supplying information that led to the arrest of the suspect.

“We also urge members of the public to tighten home security by securing doors and windows with strong locks and installing burglar bars,” she said.

She appealed to members of the public with information that may lead to the arrest of the outstanding suspects to come forward and report at the nearest police station.