Venus Charumbira
Courts and Crimes Reporter
Beitbridge – A 19-year-old teenager from Chief Mathibe area has been sentenced to four years behind bars after being convicted of a brutal robbery, during which he was recognised by a victim through a football nickname.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), Givers Mbedzi and three unidentified accomplices who are still at large raided a homestead in the early hours of 2 June 2025.
“Armed with a pistol, metal bars, and a garden pick the gang broke down the door, threatened the homeowner and his wife with death, and demanded money while assaulting them”.
The robbers allegedly made off with ZAR10,000 and USD$190. In a further bid to intimidate the family into surrendering more cash, they fired a shot into the ground.
In a statement it further states that the suspects then targeted the victims’ son, breaking into his home and assaulting him with a metal bar while continuing their demands for money.
“During the chaos, one of the victims recognised Mbedzi after he called out a nickname familiar from local football matches they played together”.
Mbedzi was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment by the Beitbridge Regional Magistrates’ Court. Four years were suspended on condition of good behaviour, leaving him to serve an effective four years.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) reiterated its commitment to prosecuting violent crimes, warning would-be offenders that justice will be served.
As this case unfolds, it emphasizes the importance of community programs that mentor young people and steer them away from crime, especially those with potential in sports or other talents.
Follow Zim GBC News for Updates 📱 WhatsApp/Hotline: +263 773 820 323 🌐 Website: www.zimgbcnews.co.zw 📘 Facebook: Zim GBC News 🐦 X (Twitter): @ZimGBCNews 📸 Instagram: @ZimGBCNews ▶️ YouTube: Zim GBC News
ZimGBCNews | Global News From An African Perspective©️2025