Zim GBC News | Crimes and Courts
BULAWAYO – A 60-year-old Manningdale man is nursing injuries and trauma after two armed robbers stormed his home in the early hours of New Year’s Day, attacking him with an axe before stealing over US$4,200 in cash.
The violent incident occurred around 2 AM on Thursday, January 1, 2026, while the complainant was alone at his house.
According to Bulawayo Metropolitan Province police spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, the man was awakened by suspicious noises outside his bedroom.
“He went to investigate and was confronted by two male intruders already inside the passage,” Insp Msebele said.
“Sensing danger, he fled back into his bedroom and locked the door, but the desperate move failed to stop the attackers. Armed with an axe, the suspects smashed down the bedroom door and forced their way inside.”
One of the assailants, described as slim and short and wearing a blue work suit with yellow reflectors, allegedly struck the complainant repeatedly with the back of the axe while demanding cash. The second suspect, in similar attire and a blue woollen hat, was armed with an okapi knife.
The victim sustained a cut on his left finger and swelling to his feet during the assault.
“Fearing for his life, he surrendered his wallet containing US$1. The attackers were not satisfied,” Insp Msebele stated.
“The robbers ransacked the bedroom, overturning drawers and scattering clothes across the house before making off with US$4 280 in cash that had been kept in a drawer, as well as a Kabot King mobile phone.”
The duo then proceeded to the lounge, where they stole an Open View decoder. In a final act of vandalism, they punctured two tyres of a white Isuzu KB250 double-cab parked in the yard.
The injured man managed to report the robbery at ZRP Hillside by 3:30 AM. Police from Hillside, CID, and the Canine Unit attended the scene.
“Police… confirmed that an axe had been used to break down the bedroom door. The house was found in disarray, with clothes strewn all over, while police dogs failed to pick up any scent,” Inspector Msebele said.
The complainant was referred to United Bulawayo Hospitals for treatment and is reported in stable condition.
“The total value of property stolen is estimated at US$4 520, and nothing has been recovered so far,” Insp Msebele added.
“Police are appealing to members of the public with information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects to come forward as investigations continue.”
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