Detective shot dead in line of duty

Nqobile Tshili-Bulawayo Bureau

BULAWAYO’S Pumula suburb became a scene of a heart-breaking tragedy on Thursday night when a female detective from the Criminal Investigation Department was shot dead in the line of duty.

Her life, dedicated to protecting the city, was extinguished as she and her colleagues pursued suspected armed robbers.

Detective Constable Cassandra Hove (37), a dedicated officer who had committed her life to protecting citizens from criminals, was killed in the line of duty in Pumula South, Habek area, after sustaining gunshot wounds to her upper limbs. She was part of a team of detectives engaged in a raid against armed robbers suspected of targeting service stations throughout the city.

The incident occurred at approximately 8:40pm, with her team rushing her to a nearby private clinic where she was pronounced dead on arrival.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that investigations into Detective Constable Hove’s death are ongoing.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms that investigations are being conducted in connection with the tragic and unfortunate death of Detective Constable Cassandra Hove of CID Homicide Bulawayo on 6th March 2025 while pursuing armed robbery suspects. The shooting incident occurred at Habek area, Pumula South, Bulawayo,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

He said that Commissioner-General of Police Stephen Mutamba is mourning Detective Constable Hove, while assuring that a comprehensive investigation is underway to establish the precise circumstances of the incident.

He stressed that law enforcement is declaring war against violent crimes, while appealing to members of the public to come forward with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects.

“The ZRP reiterates that there is no going back in the fight against armed robberies and other violent crimes in the country. The public should feel free to give information on criminal movements on Complaints Desk number 0242703631 or WhatsApp number 0712800197,” he said.