Online Reporter
Peter Matika
POLICE in Bulawayo are investigating a violent case of unlawful entry and robbery after a 64-year-old Killarney resident was attacked by a gang of five unidentified men, who broke into his home late at night.
The incident occurred on 23 April at about 11.50PM, when the complainant, was awakened by suspicious noise coming from his kitchen.
Bulawayo Province Deputy Police Spokesperson Assistant Inspector Thandekile Ndlovu, confirmed the incident, saying the complainant went to investigate and encountered the intruders already inside his home.
“Upon entering the kitchen, the complainant discovered five unknown male adults, who had gained entry after vandalising the burglar security using an axe and iron bars. The suspects struck him on the head with an axe before proceeding to the bedroom,” she said.
Asst Insp Ndlovu said the gang confronted the complainant’s wife and demanded cash.
“The suspects threatened the complainant’s wife, who surrendered US$830 and R5 000. The accused persons then fled from the scene. A police report was subsequently made,” she said.
Asst Insp Ndlovu said the complainant sustained head injuries and received medical attention, while investigations into the case are ongoing.
She urged members of the public to prioritise security measures at their homes in light of rising cases of violent robberies.
“As police, we urge the community to adopt target hardening techniques by reinforcing doors, windows and burglar screens to deter criminals. We also appeal to anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects to report to the nearest police station,” she said.
The attack adds to a growing number of violent home invasions reported across the country, with criminals increasingly targeting residential properties, particularly in low-density suburbs.
In recent years, Zimbabwe has witnessed several high-profile robbery cases that have raised alarm among citizens and law enforcement agencies.
Among the most notable is the daring Ecobank heist, in which armed robbers made off with millions of dollars in cash from a branch in Bulawayo, exposing vulnerabilities in both private and institutional security systems.
Police have also recorded similar cases where suspects use heavy tools such as bolt cutters, axes and crowbars to break into homes, often attacking occupants and demanding cash and valuables.
Police say such crimes highlight the need for increased vigilance, improved neighbourhood watch systems, and greater collaboration between residents and law enforcement agencies to curb violent crime.
Investigations into the Killarney incident are continuing, with police intensifying efforts to track down the suspects.
