Crimes and Courts Correspondent
Police in Zimbabwe are making significant progress in tracking down suspects involved in the US$4.4 million armed robbery that took place in Bulawayo early last month.
This incident is considered one of the largest bank robberies in Zimbabwe’s history since independence.
Investigation Details
Interpol has been enlisted to assist in the pursuit of the six suspects, who are believed to be Zimbabweans residing in South Africa. They reportedly cross the Limpopo River only when targeting significant heists. Crack teams have been deployed to Bulawayo and surrounding areas to further investigate the case.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that investigations are ongoing, stating,
“We are still conducting investigations on the case. We will update you in due course.”
Sources close to the Investigations indicate that critical evidence has been gathered, which could lead to the arrest of the suspects soon.
Suspected Criminal Activities
The gang is linked to multiple robberies across the country, including a notable incident in October 2022, where they stole nearly 12 kg of gold worth US$675,000 from a cash-in-transit vehicle. In Bulawayo alone, they are reported to have stolen over US$858,000 and R508,000 in five separate raids within a four-month period.
Suspects Identified
The suspects have been identified as:
- Elijah Vumbunu (alias Mupositori)
- David Sawadye
- Israel Zulu
- Kudakwashe Mudzingwa (alias Umbro)
- Takafa Vumbunu (alias Naison Mahembe)
- Paul Chinake
- Brian Murape
Elijah Vumbunu is noted to be operating a trucking business and living in affluent suburbs in South Africa, which raises concerns about the gang’s ability to evade capture after committing their crimes.
This ongoing investigation highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in tackling organized crime that crosses international borders.
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