Auction buyer loses cash to robbers

Arron Nyamayaro

A BUYER at an auction on Tuesday lost US$3 500 to robbers masquerading as potential buyers.

Tapfumaneyi Chikanya, 35, of Talink Auctions located in Mabelreign, was duped by one Marimo, and two others, who claimed they were selling a Toyota D4D.

Tapfumaneyi and his nephew, Edmore Chirikumarara, were left handcuffed by the robbers.

Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the case and appealed for information that may lead to arrest of the suspects.

“Police are investigating a fraud case where two men were left handcuffed by the suspects in Eastlea,” said Insp Chakanza.

“Circumstances were that on April 30, at around 0955 hours, the accused person sent a WhatsApp message to the complainant stating that he was selling his motor vehicle.

“He stated that he wanted the complainant’s company to buy it since he was in the business of buying properties for auctions.

“An arrangement was made by the complainant and accused person to meet each other on May 02.

“On Tuesday, at around 1339 hours, the accused person sent the address and the complainant, together with his nephew, proceeded to the venue.

“Upon arrival at the gate, the complainant phoned the accused person to come at the gate.”

He added: “One of the accused persons then produced a pistol and he corked it once.

“The accused person then demanded cash from the complainant and the complainant tried to plead with the accused person that he had no money.

“The two accused persons then handcuffed complainant and his nephew and went on to cover them with a blanket while threatening to kill them.

“Upon noticing danger to his life, the complainant advised the accused persons to go and collect US$3 500 from his motor vehicle which was parked outside.”