Raymond Jaravaza, Zimpapers Reporter
ONE suspected armed robber was shot dead while two others were arrested after exchanging gun fire with police in Norwood, Bulawayo, in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
The three armed robbers were on close and monitored police surveillance for their involvement in five armed robberies cases committed in just two days.
Zimbabwe National Republic national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the suspects were armed with machetes, axes and knives when they committed the spree of armed robberies.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of two robbery suspects,
Austin Nkomazana (23) and Nkosikhona Ndlovu (23) and the death of
their accomplice, Average Ndlovu (23), alias SaAaron, following a shootout
with police officers in Norwood, Bulawayo.
“The suspects were being tracked by the police in connection with five robbery
cases which occurred in Umguza on 18 and 19 October 2026,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
In one of the five armed robberies committed at the gang they attacked a woman and her three children at their home in Umguza in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
“Armed with machetes, axes and knives, they attacked a woman and her three children at their home in Umguza and
allegedly stole US$2 000 as well as other valuables valued at US$2 460,”
Comm. Nyathi said in another incident on 18 October, the suspects allegedly broke into a complainant’s house and robbed
him of US$ 300.
They fled in the complainant’s Honda Fit vehicle.
The vehicle was later abandoned after being involved in a road accident, said Comm. Nyathi.
“Police officers fired warning shots, but the suspects continued advancing towards
them, prompting the police to open fire. Average Mdlovu was shot and sustained a gunshot wound on the chest and was rushed to United Bulawayo Hospitals, where he was pronounced dead upon admission.
Commissioner Nyathi said the other sispects Nkomazana and Ndlovu were subsequently arrested.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police warns criminal syndicates and individuals
involved in violent criminal activities that the police will not stand by and allow
officers to be attacked while executing their lawful duties.
“Any attempt to attack police officers will be met with a lawful and proportionate response in accordance with the law,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
