Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu,[email protected]
A FEARSOME gang of 21 armed thugs launched a midnight ambush on Machobeni Mine in West Nicholson, beating up security guards and making off with 200 bags of gold ore. However, police gunfire foiled a clean getaway.
The Hollywood-style raid happened around 1AM on Tuesday. The suspects, wielding pistols, logs and torches, surrounded the mine and attacked four guards on duty.
Matabeleland South police spokesperson Inspector Chiratidzo Dube said one of the guards was armed with a .303 rifle, but the gang overpowered him and stole the weapon before dragging the guards to the ground and assaulting them.
“The suspects forced the guards to lie on their stomachs and used logs to beat them before stealing 200 bags of gold ore which they hid in the bush,” said Insp Dube.
But their plan hit a wall when one of the battered guards managed to escape and called the police. Officers rushed to the scene and spotted the gang trying to move the loot to the road.
“Police fired warning shots and the suspects scattered into the darkness, abandoning the ore,” she said.
Two guards were injured and taken to Gwanda Provincial Hospital.
Police are now hunting the 21-man gang and warned that patrols in mining zones would be stepped up.
“We urge anyone with information to contact the nearest police station or call ZRP West Nicholson on 08428-016452/016453,” Insp Dube added.
@DubeMatutu
