Prominance Sinomusa Khumalo
Zim GBC News | Features Reporter
BULAWAYO – A senior Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) investigations officer was left stranded on Saturday after his Toyota Hilux GD6 was stolen in a brazen heist at a Bulawayo service station, highlighting a recurring trend of vehicles being taken while unattended with keys in the ignition.
The incident occurred when the officer stopped to refuel and opted to pay using a swipe card. According to police sources, the situation escalated quickly.
“The female fuel attendant told him that the swipe machine was inside the shop,” revealed a taxi driver who witnessed the incident.
The Taxi driver eventually transported the Zimra officer to Bulawayo Central Police Station to report the case.
“The victim got out of his vehicle, leaving the ignition key on and the car idling. His cellphones and wallet, containing US$1 000, were also left inside the vehicle.”
The officer’s lapse in security provided a golden opportunity for criminals. A few minutes later, three suspects wearing balaclavas, who were driving a Honda Fit, were seen circling the service station.
“They were probably assessing the situation,” the source added.
“Noticing that the car was unattended, they abandoned their Honda Fit, got into the GD6, and drove off.”
The abandoned Honda Fit is now a key piece of evidence for investigators.
Bulawayo police have confirmed they are investigating the case.
Bulawayo deputy police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Thandekile Ndlovu, stated that official details would be released in due course.
“We are investigating the matter, and further details will be communicated in due course,” said Asst. Insp. Ndlovu.
This incident serves as a stark reminder to motorists to never leave their vehicles unattended with the engine running, even for a brief moment.
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