Online Reporter
B-Metro Reporter
GWABALANDA residents are reeling in shock after two balaclava-wearing robbers stormed into a family home and vanished with more than US$14 000 in cash and property.
The masked marauders struck on Wednesday night around 8PM when a 30-year-old woman was relaxing in her dining room with her 17-year-old niece. Two masked men slipped in through an unlocked door and immediately grabbed the teenager by the neck.
The intruders ordered her to fetch all the money in the house. Terrified, she led them to her aunt’s bedroom where she handed over a purse stuffed with US$10 000.
But the robbers were not satisfied. After fleeing briefly, they returned minutes later, demanding more. “This is too little, we were sent to collect US$20 000,” they allegedly barked.
Fearing for their lives, the woman produced another purse containing US$4 000. The gang also snatched a 50-inch Samsung television before disappearing into the night.
The total loss has been pegged at US$14 400. Nothing has been recovered.
Assistant Inspector Thandekile Ndlovu, Bulawayo provincial deputy spokesperson, confirmed the incident and issued a stern warning.
“We urge members of the public to desist from keeping large sums of money in their homes but rather to bank the cash. Do not disclose your money to anyone, as no one can be trusted,” she said.
Police further advised residents to secure their homes with burglar bars and to keep doors locked, especially at night.
The robbery has shaken Gwabalanda residents, with fears that the suspects could return to terrorise other households.
Anyone with information leading to the arrest of the culprits is urged to contact their nearest police station.
