Sidumisile Mabena
Raymond Jaravaza, Zimpapers Reporter
BULAWAYO police are investigating a series of armed robberies that took place in one night in Manningdale suburb, leaving families traumatised and counting their losses.
The attacks on the six homes took place on 14 April, in a violent crime spree that lasted about four hours.
The victims lost property worth US$2 000, with some left nursing injuries after they were assaulted by the assailants.
“On 14 April, between midnight and 4am, seven accused persons were behind six robbery cases committed in the Manningdale area. They used similar means to forcibly open locked doors to gain entry and demanded cash and cell phones from the victims.
In some instances the accused would assault the complainants using knobkerries. Police reports were made and the assailants are yet to be arrested,” said Bulawayo police deputy spokesperson Assistant Inspector Thandekile Ndlovu.
Assistant Inspector Ndlovu said the armed robbers used an assortment of weapons ranging from machetes, axes, hammers, shovels, knobkerries and a pick to terrorise their victims and also wore black jackets and balaclavas to conceal their identities.
“Police urge community members to tighten security by installing burglar bars on doors and windows that can withstand attempts to breach home security systems.
We also appeal to anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the accused persons to report at any nearest police station,” she said.
Bunjiwe Mkwananzi