dyton mupawaenda
Arron Nyamayaro
THE United Methodist Church in Highlands, which recently hit headlines when an evangelist collapsed and died on stage, has been struck by armed robbers.
The six armed robbers raided and ransacked the church last Tuesday.
They disarmed a security guard, Peter Sahumbe, 37, blasted the safe and stole the cash.
Church caretakers – Wilford Kanoyangwa, 72 and Pauline Mahamba, 52 – also lost their money and cellphones to the robbers.
Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the case.
“Police are investigating a robbery case at a church in Highlands,” said Insp Chakanza.
“Circumstances were that a church service was held from 1800 hours to 1930 hours.
“After the service a security guard closed the church gates and doors after the congregants had exited the premises.
“After ensuring that the premises were secure, the guard conducted a routine check around the church property.
“During his check, he was suddenly surrounded by six unknown men, who were armed with unspecified objects.
“They overpowered him and handcuffed him using his own handcuffs.
“While the complainant was confined to the guardroom, two church members who are the caretakers of the church, patrolled the church premises after hearing alarm sounds.”
He added:
“The two residents were immediately apprehended by the robbers, who proceeded to tie their hands and legs with a cloth.
“They then forcefully broke the door to the church hall, gained entry into the office, where they used explosives to blast open a metal safe.
“The accused persons took cash from the safe (amount not specified) an Itel phone, a Samsung, Huawei cellphones and a wallet with US$32 belonging to the residents.
“The value of the stolen property is yet to be supplied,” said Insp Chakanza.
Online Reporter