Online Reporter
Peter Matika, [email protected]
POLICE in Bulawayo have arrested additional suspects in connection with the recent spate of violent attacks, carried out by a notorious machete-wielding gang, targeting residents and robbing them of cash and valuables.
The brazen daylight attacks have left residents reeling in shock and fear, with some incidents resulting in near-fatal injuries.
National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the arrests yesterday but refrained from disclosing further details, citing ongoing investigations.
“We are still processing the suspects and plan to hold an identification parade. We are also assessing the neighbourhoods that were targeted. Full details will be released in due course,” said Comm Nyathi.
The suspects already in custody have been identified by police as members of a gang responsible for a series of violent robberies across Bulawayo.
The group is accused of ambushing unsuspecting victims along remote paths and in isolated areas, using machetes and knives to threaten and rob them.
Community leaders have since called for heightened police visibility and stronger security measures to address the growing threat. In recent weeks, reports of machete-wielding gangs terrorising individuals in residential areas have become alarmingly frequent.
Victims have sustained serious injuries, and the chilling nature of the attacks has sent shockwaves throughout the city.
“We need to feel safe in our own homes. It’s time for the authorities to listen to our concerns and take decisive action to protect our families. It’s like something from a nightmare,” said Mr Winos Dube, Chairperson of the Bulawayo United Residents Association (Bura).
“These attacks are inhumane. You never think it will happen to you until it’s right on your doorstep. Law enforcement should increase manpower and work with residents to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”
Mr Dube further urged police to intensify patrols in residential areas, to deter potential robbers.
“We also encourage residents to remain vigilant and avoid secluded, bushy footpaths. As communities, we must be proactive and support initiatives such as neighbourhood watch committees to help keep our suburbs safe, both day and night,” he said.
Mrs Permanent Ngoma, Executive Director of the Bulawayo Progressive Residents Association (BPRA), echoed the concerns, describing the attacks as a matter of serious concern requiring a collective response.
“BPRA is deeply troubled by the recent wave of machete attacks. These violent acts are not only criminal but a grave threat to public safety, peace and the dignity of our communities. Residents are living in fear, and the trauma they face is immeasurable,” she said.
“We urge the City of Bulawayo to work collaboratively with community leaders and civil society organisations to develop local safety strategies. As BPRA, we stand with the victims and will continue to amplify their voices, advocate for justice and push for a co-ordinated response that prioritises the safety of residents.”
Meanwhile, residents have taken to social media and local forums to express their outrage and fear. Many are sharing personal stories, with some revealing that they have had to alter their daily routines to avoid becoming victims.
“I used to walk my children to school, but now I’ve resorted to arranging private transport, it’s just not safe for them or for me. I can’t take the risk,” one Facebook user shared.
In the meantime, four suspects believed to be part of the gang behind attacks in Queens Park, Sauerstown, and Northend suburbs have appeared in court on multiple robbery charges.
The accused, Hardlife Sibanda (28) of Sauerstown, Terrence Nqobile Ngwenya (24), Prince Ngulube (18) and Shelton Ncube (25) — are alleged to have used machetes and axes to terrorise and rob residents.
They appeared before Regional Magistrate Mr Joseph Mabeza last Thursday, facing robbery charges. Prosecutor, Miss Siphiwe Mhlanga told the court that the offences occurred on several occasions, with Sibanda facing three counts of robbery.
She stated that the suspects ambushed their victims in broad daylight, brandishing machetes and threatening violence before stealing valuables.
The four accused were remanded in custody until May 22.
