Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
FIVE members of a notorious armed robbery gang that terrorised residents and business operators in Harare and surrounding areas have been sentenced to a combined effective 164 years in prison following a series of violent robberies involving firearms.
The gang, comprising Tafadzwa Richard Marondera (25), Liberty Mukanganise (31), Brighton Chikukwa (27), Silence Matambo (27) and Luke Zinyengere (28), was convicted after investigations linked them to 10 armed robbery cases committed between October 2023 and February 2024.
Criminal Investigations Department national spokesperson Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri said investigations began after information linked Marondera to a series of armed robberies in the greater Harare area, leading to his arrest on February 25, 2024.
During questioning, Marondera implicated his accomplices, resulting in the subsequent arrest of the other gang members and the recovery of a 9mm Retay pistol allegedly used in the robberies.
“Investigations established that the gang targeted residential properties, business premises and service stations, using the firearm to intimidate victims, while in some instances shooting and assaulting them before taking cash and valuables,” said Det Insp Muteweri.
She said on October 12, 2023, the gang raided a house in Mabvuku, Harare, where they fired warning shots after the occupant refused to open the door. They subsequently forced their way into the house and stole US$5 500.
On December 10, 2023, they struck at a residence in Glenview 7, where they fired shots and stole US$320.
“The gang proceeded to a farm in Beatrice on the same day, where they shot a victim in the thigh before stealing US$700, electronic gadgets and two firearms.
In another robbery on December 29, 2023, the gang attacked a residential property before proceeding to a service station, where they broke into offices, blasted open a safe and stole US$4 870,” said Det Insp Muteweri.
She said they also fired shots at a security reaction team, forcing its members to retreat, before escaping in a Toyota Rav4 belonging to one of the victims.
Det Insp Muteweri said on January 31, 2024, the gang targeted a business premises in Workington, Harare, getting away with US$42 000, electronic gadgets and a Honda Fit.
Other targets included service stations in Mabelreign, St Mary’s, Chitungwiza and Ruwa.
“The five were subsequently convicted and sentenced as follows: Marondera received 77 years imprisonment, Mukanganise 36 years, while Chikukwa, Matambo and Zinyengere were each sentenced to 17 years,” she said.
Harare magistrate Noel Mupeiwa presided over the matter, with Ms Mercy Musamvu appearing for the State.
“As Police we want to state it clearly that we remain resolute in the fight against crime and we commend the courts for ensuring that justice is continuously served,” said Det Insp Muteweri
