Online Reporter
Danisa Masuku
CHAOS and fear rocked a Bulawayo supermarket when two balaclava-wearing robbers stormed in and held up a money transfer agent at gunpoint before making off with thousands in cash.
The daring robbery happened just after 8.30am at Bargain Supermarket, where the pair of armed thugs disembarked from a vehicle, marched in with a pistol and a machete, and took control of the scene.
“It all happened so fast,” said bystander Trevor Moyo. “The two masked men stormed in and shouted at everyone to lie face down on the floor. It was terrifying. No one dared move.”
After freezing the entire shop, the robbers headed straight to the Hello Paisa money transfer counter. One of them pointed a gun at the cashier and barked out demands for money.
Fearing for his life, the cashier handed over US$3 301 and R6 300 from the cash box. Not done yet, the robbers also snatched two cellphones before fleeing the scene in their getaway car.
“They didn’t waste time,” said Moyo. “As soon as they got the money, they sprinted out, jumped into their car and sped off, leaving everyone frozen in shock.”
The shaken cashier quickly reported the robbery to the police.
Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele confirmed the incident.
“I confirm that two armed robbers pounced on a money transfer agent and got away with more than US$3 000 and R6 300. Investigations are in progress. Anyone with information can contact any nearest police station,” she said.
Inspector Msebele urged companies that handle large sums of cash to step up their security.
“We urge organisations dealing in cash to fortify their security. Employ trained security personnel and install CCTV monitoring systems. Criminals are targeting soft spots,” she warned.
The robbers are still on the run and police have launched a manhunt. Bulawayo residents are urged to stay alert and report any suspicious activity.
