Crime and Courts
BREAKING: Third Suspect in US$4 Million Ecobank Heist Nabbed
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of a third suspect in connection with the high-profile armed robbery of Ecobank in Bulawayo, which took place on 3 October 2024 and resulted in the theft of US$4 million.
According to National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi , said the suspect, 39-year-old Bhekani Mlilo, was apprehended in Botswana on 14 July 2025 while attempting to enter the country from South Africa.
Mlilo’s arrest follows the earlier capture of two other suspects, Abraham Temayi Vumbunu and Elijah Temayi Vumbunu, who were detained in South Africa earlier this month.
Authorities say all three are linked to the sophisticated heist, one of Zimbabwe’s largest cash robberies in recent years.
“The due processes of the law are now taking effect for the suspect’s extradition to Zimbabwe,” Nyathi said.
Police have not disclosed details about Mlilo’s role in the robbery but confirmed that efforts to apprehend additional suspects are ongoing.
The ZRP indicated that more information would be shared as investigations progress.
The Bulawayo Ecobank robbery shocked the nation last year after armed men reportedly stormed a secure cash transit and made off with millions in foreign currency.
Authorities have been working with regional law enforcement agencies in South Africa and Botswana to track down the suspects across borders.
Crime and Courts
Chinhoyi Man Jailed 15 Years for Rape
A 39 year old Chinhoyi man will serve 15 years in prison following his conviction for the rape of a 15 year old girl.
Mike ChikangaMike Chikanga appeared before the Chinhoyi Magistrates’ Court last week to face justice for the assault that occurred earlier this year.
The court heard that the incident took place in February 2026 after Chikanga targeted a minor who lived in his neighborhood.
Chikanga was a frequent visitor to the victim’s home, where he often assisted the family by fixing various electrical faults.
During these visits, he reportedly made several unwanted advances toward the girl. He eventually offered her $10 USD in an attempt to initiate a relationship, but the teenager refused his proposal.
Later that month, Chikanga took advantage of a moment when the victim was alone in her room. He entered the premises and physically overpowered the girl before raping her.
After the assault, he threatened the victim to ensure she remained silent about the crime.
The matter only came to light after the girl gained the courage to confide in a relative. A formal police report was filed immediately, leading to Chikanga’s arrest and subsequent trial.
In passing the sentence, the court took a firm stance against sexual violence involving minors.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe stated that it remains dedicated to securing justice for victims of gender based violence.
Crime and Courts
Snooker Row Turns Deadly
A single stab to the right hand, delivered after a dispute over a snooker game, has claimed the life of a 33-year-old man.
Emanuel Phiri (24) has been arrested in connection with the murder of Fortune Hadebe (33), who died on 11 April 2026 after being stabbed once during a confrontation at Mzenda Business Centre, Thokozani Village, Ntabazinduna.
National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that the stabbing occurred on 10 April 2026 following a misunderstanding between the two men while playing snooker.
Hadebe sustained a deep cut to his right hand. He initially sought treatment at Ntabazinduna Clinic, where medical staff referred him to United Bulawayo Hospitals.
However, he succumbed to his injury on 11 April before reaching the referral hospital.
In an unrelated incident, Buhera police arrested of Blessing Musapukira (46) in connection with a murder which occurred at Chaputika Village in Buhera on 9 April 2026.
“The suspect allegedly struck his brother, Denford Musapukira (44), twice on the head with an axe following a misunderstanding over an undisclosed issue,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
Crime and Courts
Teacher Arrested Over Alleged Abuse of Young Learners in Chinhoyi
A teacher at an infants’ school in Chinhoyi has been arrested following serious allegations of misconduct involving young learners.
Victor Zivira, who teaches at Vimbaishe Infant School, was taken into custody by the Zimbabwe Republic Police in Chemagamba. He is accused of exposing children to inappropriate material and engaging in unacceptable behaviour with pupils.
According to reports, the alleged incidents involved showing learners explicit content and discussing topics that are not suitable for children of that age. Authorities are also investigating further claims of improper physical conduct.
Zivira is expected to appear in court as investigations continue.
The school’s founder, Vimbainashe Matsika, said the matter came to light during counselling sessions with learners.
“During one of the sessions, some children began to open up about their experiences, which raised serious concerns,” she said.
“As both a parent and the school director, I immediately reported the issue to the police and the Ministry of Education. We cannot allow anyone to harm the wellbeing and dignity of our children.”
Matsika expressed concern over the increasing number of child abuse cases and called on parents and guardians to be more involved in their children’s lives.
“Our children face risks in many environments, and it is our responsibility as parents, teachers and guardians to remain vigilant and protective,” she said.
She encouraged families to create time for open communication with children, emphasizing the importance of guidance on personal safety, boundaries, and self-respect.
“We need to talk to our children regularly at home, at school, and in the community so they understand how to protect themselves and feel safe to speak out,” she added.
Matsika urged society not to overlook the importance of safeguarding children, stressing that awareness and active involvement can help prevent such incidents.
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