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Yeukai Karengezeka
A 43-year-old man, Garikai Shangwa, suspected of being part of a syndicate behind a series of armed robberies, appeared in court on Friday facing five counts of robbery.
He was remanded in custody and advised to apply for bail at the High Court.
Shangwa is linked to multiple high-profile robberies, including the theft of US$74 000 from businessman Wicknell Chivayo’s in-laws at their Marondera farm.
He is also accused of participating in a violent robbery at Stapleford Farm in Nyabira on December 30, 2024, alongside accomplices Doubt Makumana, Doubt Stephen Kaseya Taurai — who is already on remand — and others still at large.
According to the State, the gang first attacked two security guards at the farm, stealing their personal belongings, tying them up and threatening them with firearms to get information.
Shortly after, they ambushed a farm vehicle, stealing a shotgun and restraining both the driver and a supervisor.
The robbery escalated when the suspects broke into the farm owner’s residence, cutting through security fences before ransacking the house.
They reportedly stole an FN pistol, ammunition and US$40 000 in cash.
The gang later abandoned the stolen vehicle and divided the loot, which amounted to US$47 000 (including the pistol and ammunition).
Shangwa was arrested after police investigations, while some of his accomplices are still at large.
Online Reporter