Online Reporter
Peter Matika, Zimpapers Writer
A 25-YEAR-OLD suspect linked to an armed robbery syndicate that has been terrorising Bulawayo residents in Luveve and Cowdray Park suburbs, has been arrested.
The suspect, Themba Ncube from Magwegwe North, was arrested in connection with a spate of armed robberies following a swift police operation after detectives received a tip-off from members of the public.
Ncube is alleged to have been part of a three-man gang that terrorised households by breaking into homes at night while occupants were asleep.
In a statement, Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, said Ncube ganged up with Joseph Phiri (38) of Magwegwe North and Oscar Ndlovu, who are both still at large, to commit the offences.
“The suspect and his accomplices were involved in a series of armed robbery cases that occurred in Luveve 5 and Cowdray Park, Bulawayo. The suspects would target houses during the night, force open doors using iron bars and gain entry while armed with knives and a pistol,” she said.
Once inside the houses, Insp Msebele said the gang subjected occupants to brutal assaults and threats of death as they demanded cash and valuables.
“The complainants were assaulted and threatened with death while the suspects demanded money and property. The gang targeted at least four different households, stealing cellphones and cash amounting to US$920,” she said.
Insp Msebele said police investigations revealed that the criminals deliberately struck in the early hours of the morning, taking advantage of darkness and the vulnerability of sleeping families.
She said residents in the affected suburbs lived in constant fear, with some afraid to sleep in their houses.
The breakthrough came on December 23 at around 5AM, when police received information that the suspects were spotted near Emakhandeni Secondary School.
“Police swiftly reacted to the information and spotted the suspects. Upon seeing the police, the suspects fled, resulting in a chase,” said Insp Msebele.
During the pursuit, Ncube was apprehended, while his accomplices managed to escape.
“Upon interrogation, the suspect admitted to having committed the offences. We have since intensified efforts to track down the remaining suspects, and it is only a matter of time before they are brought to book,” said Insp Msebele.
She commended members of the public for their co-operation, saying community vigilance played a crucial role in the arrest.
“We appreciate members of the public for supplying information that led to the arrest of the accused person. Community co-operation remains key in the fight against crime,” said Insp Msebele.
She also urged residents to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their property, particularly during the festive season when criminal activities tend to increase.
“We urge members of the public to tighten their home security by securing doors and windows with strong locks and installing burglar bars. These measures can go a long way in deterring criminals,” said Insp Msebele.
She appealed to anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the other suspects.
“Members of the public with information that may assist in the arrest of the outstanding suspects are urged to report to the nearest police station,” she said.
The arrest comes as police continue to clamp down on violent crime in the city, assuring residents that their safety remains a top priority.
