Chronicle Editor
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
THREE armed men hijacked a Ford Ranger Twin Cab at gunpoint on Wednesday night at Chigumira Shopping Centre in Luveve, Bulawayo, in a dramatic incident that left the motorist unharmed but shaken.
The vehicle, valued at over US$40 000, was recovered yesterday in Gwanda, less than 24 hours after the incident. However, investigations are still ongoing as police analyse fingerprints and other evidence.
Bulawayo police deputy spokesperson Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele said the incident occurred at around 9 PM when the complainant, Mr Jabulani Sibanda, returned to his parked vehicle after shopping at Advance Supermarket.
While reversing his white Ford Ranger Twin Cab (Wild Track), registration AFN 6255, three men approached him.
“Two of the suspects were armed with pistols, while the third was unarmed. The armed suspects forced the complainant out of the car, and then fled with the vehicle,” said Asst Insp Msebele.
Inside the car were groceries worth US$5, a Techno Canon 11 cellphone, a Nokia cellphone, and about 35 litres of diesel.
The vehicle’s owner, Ms Sithembile Mkwite, confirmed its recovery in Gwanda.
“Yes, the car has been recovered. We travelled to Gwanda today (yesterday), but police are still conducting forensic investigations,” she said.
This incident comes just days after another vehicle, a Toyota Fortuner, was stolen from a car wash in Bulawayo. The vehicle, valued at US$22 000, had South African registration plates and belonged to a woman from Reigate suburb.
According to police reports, the vehicle was stolen at Tunnel Car Wash along Robert Mugabe Way. The complainant had sent an employee to fetch the car, but upon arrival, the vehicle was missing. A report was made to the police and investigations are underway.
Bulawayo police have urged the public to assist with any information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects or recovery of the Toyota Fortuner.
Bulawayo police spokesperson, Inspector Abednico Ncube, reiterated the need for vigilance, especially in high-traffic areas and car washes.
“We appeal to the public to remain cautious and report any suspicious activities immediately. Vehicle thefts are on the rise, and community co-operation is crucial in combating such crimes,” said the police spokesperson.
Online Reporter