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Arron Nyamayaro
THERE has been a sharp increase in the number of commuters who are losing their valuables and cash to robbers who would have offered them transport in their private cars.
Tatenda Mutimbwa, 34, a mechanic based in Masvingo, lost US$8 300 cash to robbers on Monday, after boarding a Toyota Fortuner (AFC 8352) at the corner of Glenara Avenue and Chiremba Road at around 7pm.
The vehicle had three men on board when he boarded the car.
Along the way, the driver diverted the route and got into a street in Braeside.
One of the occupants produced an black pistol and pointed at Tatenda, demanding all his valuables.
He surrendered US$8 300 and a KGtel cellphone.
One of the robbers then pushed Tatenda out of the car.
Tinashe Nyazema, 41, was on Monday lured into boarding a white Honda Fit, from the Harare Central Business District to Good Hope, at around 6pm.
The vehicle had five men and one woman who were pretending to be passengers.
When they arrived at the corner of Blakiston Road and Beits Avenue, the driver stopped the vehicle.
One of the six robbers suddenly grabbed Tinashe while the other five searched him and forcibly took his cash, which was in his pockets.
He was pushed out of the vehicle and they drove off.
Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the cases, warning the criminals terrorising commuters that their days are numbered.
“Police are investigating cases involving private vehicles being used by robbers to rob unsuspecting commuters,” said Insp Chakanza.
“Police will not tire to make sure that such criminals are brought to book to face justice.
“We also continue to urge commuters to avoid boarding private vehicles as well as moving with large volumes of money on them,” he said.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter