Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo Check Point Desk
FOUR men believed to be part of a notorious gang behind a string of car thefts have been arrested in Chinhoyi, Mashonaland West.
The suspects — Wellington Jinya (20), Nyasha Mushure (24), Tatenda Maphosa (21), and Edmore Muchenje (24) — were wanted in connection with eight counts of motor vehicle robbery.
Criminal Investigations Department national spokesperson, Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri, said the gang posed as innocent hitchhikers before striking.
“They would solicit lifts from unsuspecting motorists and along the journey rob them of their vehicles and other valuables,” said Det Insp Muteweri.
Their run ended on September 4 when detectives received a tip-off implicating Jinya. A raid led to his arrest and the recovery of an AK-47 knife, Retay gun with three rounds, several cellphones, a Dell laptop, and other weapons.
“After questioning, Jinya revealed the identities of his accomplices, leading to their arrests,” Det Insp Muteweri added.
In one attack on August 26, the gang allegedly robbed a man of his Honda Fit, abandoning him by the roadside before later dumping the vehicle in Ruvimbo, Chinhoyi.
Det Insp Muteweri said all stolen vehicles have since been recovered and confirmed the gang is also linked to a robbery and rape case in Zvimba.
The quartet appeared in court on Saturday and was remanded in custody while investigations continue.
Meanwhile, police have launched a manhunt for six other suspects: Tinotenda Devillious Chiremba, Lloyd Makiwa, Eddie alias Dhama, Jacob [NFPK] Maphosa, Hun’i [NFPK], and Watson alias Mandebvu.
“We urge the public to report any information that may assist in tracking down these fugitives,” said Det Insp Muteweri.
