Crimes and Courts
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has successfully arrested a notorious highway robbery syndicate that had been terrorizing travelers along the Beitbridge-Gwanda Road diversion.
The syndicate, comprising five individuals, had been operating systematically between April and July 2025, targeting slow-moving commercial vehicles and passenger transport.
According to Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri, spokesperson for the Criminal Investigation Department, the gang’s modus operandi included posing as unsuspecting passengers before attacking drivers, stealing cash, personal belongings, and entire vehicles.
“The suspects would disable trucks by severing critical hydraulic and fuel lines, making it easy for them to ambush and rob the drivers,” Muteweri said.
The arrested suspects, aged between 25 and 40, include Bornman Ziweni, Believe Shumba, David Ratsauka, Peter Chinhimbiti, and Delight Gwanyanya. Authorities have linked the group to eight confirmed robberies in Beitbridge and two additional cases in Mwenezi.
Notable cases include the May 10 attack on a Scania truck driver, the May 19 robbery where the gang stole US$700 and R2000, and the June crimes where they commandeered two different taxis through deception.
“The investigation is ongoing, and we urge victims to come forward and assist with identification procedures,” Muteweri said.
“We have recovered some of the stolen property, and we are working to uncover the full extent of the gang’s criminal activities.”
The arrest has been hailed as a significant win for the authorities, who have been working tirelessly to ensure the safety of travelers and transport operators in the region.
Zim GBC News 2025