Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube
Bulawayo \u2013 Police have issued a stern warning to motorists following two brazen armed robberies in which high-value Toyota Fortuners were stolen in violent back-to-back incidents in Bulawayo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First Attack: Elderly Woman Robbed at Gunpoint<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The first incident occurred on June 11 in Pumula South, where a 64-year-old woman was ambushed as she returned to her parked silver Toyota Fortuner (AGH 2067) after inspecting renovations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cAs she was trying to unlock the vehicle, an unknown assailant pointed a black pistol at her, demanding the car keys and threatening to shoot her if she resisted,\u201d said Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The terrified woman surrendered her keys, handbag, and other belongings. The robbers fled with the Fortuner, US$43 cash, pain tablets worth US$50, and a bucket of paint valued at US$138, bringing the total loss to US$55,000.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Second Attack: Couple Ambushed Near Kingsdale Shops<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Just five days later, on June 16 around 8:45 PM, a 37-year-old man and his wife were targeted near Kingsdale shops in Parklands. The couple had pulled over in a dimly lit area when five armed men struck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe suspects emerged from behind the vehicle, armed with a pistol and an okapi knife,\u201d said Insp Msebele.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThey forced the couple out, took their silver Toyota Fortuner (AFK 3226), groceries, and two iPhone 13 Pro Max phones worth US$1,400.\u201d The total stolen goods were valued at US$46,450.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Police Warn Motorists, Appeal for Information<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Authorities have noted an “emerging trend” of vehicle robberies in the city and urged residents to take precautions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe urge all motorists to ensure their vehicles have tracking devices and to remain vigilant,\u201d said Insp Msebele.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIf you suspect you\u2019re being followed, drive straight to the nearest police station. When taking a break, choose well-lit areas near shops or buildings.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No Arrests Made, Investigations Ongoing<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So far, no recoveries have been made in either case. Police are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the arrest of the robbers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIf you know something, say something,\u201d urged Insp Msebele.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThese criminals are dangerous, and we need the community\u2019s help to stop them.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Residents are advised to report suspicious activity to their nearest police station as investigations continue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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