Raymond Jaravaza, Zimpapers Reporter
AN Inyathi armed robber, accused of being part of a gang that was involved in murder and robbery cases where US$18 000 was stolen in June this year, was killed in a police shootout on Wednesday.
In a statement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said the suspect was shot after he tried to disarm police officers near Kenilworth turn-off along the Bulawayo-Nkayi Road.
“Richmond Thomas Ndlovu was shot after he allegedly attempted to disarm police officers at a secluded place near Kenilworth turn-off along the Bulawayo-Nkayi Road. The suspect had attempted to disarm police officers resulting in him being shot on the leg and stomach,” said ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi.
“Subsequently, police recovered a Star Pistol loaded with seven rounds and a Colombian knife. The suspect died on the way to the hospital,”
The shooting incident followed the recovery of three pistols at the suspect’s residence at Exchange village, Inyathi, the previous day after Ndlovu’s wife – Tryphine Phuti (29) – fled the couple’s homestead following threats by the suspect
that he wanted to kill her.
“The suspect was being linked to four cases of murder and robbery, which occurred between 5 June and 27 September 2026 in and around Inyathi.
“On 5 June 2026, the suspect was involved in a case of murder and robbery that occurred at a service station at Mahamba Business Centre, Inyathi where a security guard was killed and another case of robbery which occurred at a supermarket at Badala Business Centre in the same area where US$18 000 was stolen,” said Comm. Nyathi.
