Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
ARMED robbers attacked a Bulawayo man outside his home, chopped off his finger with a machete and fled in his vehicle after stealing cash.
The incident occurred on July 17 at around 9pm. The 45-year-old man arrived at his Cowdray Park residence driving his grey Honda Fit, accompanied by his son.
Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele said the man’s son had just stepped out of the vehicle to open the gate when a group of armed men emerged from the darkness.
She said the son raised the alarm after noticing the suspects, prompting his father to get out of the vehicle.
“The complainant’s son shouted ‘thieves’ and the complainant disembarked from his vehicle. The accused persons indiscriminately assaulted the complainant with open hands, a log and a machete, resulting in his middle finger being chopped off,” she said.
The robbers demanded money from the victim and he handed them his wallet containing US$130.
While the attack was unfolding outside, the man’s wife, who was inside the house, heard the commotion and immediately locked the doors before blowing a whistle to alert neighbours.
The suspects jumped into the victim’s vehicle and sped from the scene.
“The accused persons then entered into the complainant’s vehicle and drove away,” said Insp Msebele.
Police have since launched investigations into the robbery and are appealing to anyone with information that may assist in identifying the suspects to report to the nearest police station.
The incident adds to growing concerns over armed robberies in residential areas, where criminals are increasingly targeting residents as they arrive home or prepare to enter their properties.
Insp Msebele urged residents to remain vigilant, especially when arriving home at night, and to report suspicious activity in their neighbourhoods.
