By Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube
Zim GBC News Editor
BULAWAYO – Police in Bulawayo are investigating two separate armed robberies carried out by a gang of three men on Saturday, which left residents of Emthunzini and Pumula South traumatized and pleading for increased security.
The brazen attacks, both involving suspects armed with pistols and an axe, have prompted an urgent appeal from law enforcement for the public to adopt heightened security measures.
The first incident occurred in the early hours of the morning. According to police, a 54-year-old Emthunzini woman was awakened around 4 AM by the sound of her main door being forced open.
“After a few minutes, the complainant saw three unknown male adults armed with a pistol and axe entering the house,” said Assistant Inspector Thandekile Ndlovu, the Bulawayo Deputy Press and Public Relations Officer.
“The accused persons pointed a pistol at the complainant and demanded cash. They then searched the bedroom and took cash US$6-00 which was in the wardrobe before fleeing.”
The second, more severe robbery took place later that evening in Pumula South. A 34-year-old man was targeted as he arrived home from the city centre around 8:10 PM.
“As he was disembarking from his vehicle, he was approached by three unknown accused persons who were all armed with pistols. They ordered him to lie on the ground and he complied,” stated Asst. Insp. Ndlovu.
The robbers demanded cash and his Samsung cell phone, and the man was forced to surrender US$6,000. The gang then ransacked his house before finally stealing his Honda Fit vehicle and driving off.
In light of these events, police are urging the community to be vigilant.
“We urge the community to use target hardening techniques in their homes by installing burglar bars and security screen doors,” Asst. Insp. Ndlovu advised.
“We also urge members of the public to avoid carrying large sums of money especially at night but to bank the money instead.”
Authorities have appealed to anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects or the recovery of the stolen white Honda Fit to come forward immediately.
Zim GBC News | Global News From An African Perspective©2025