Chronicle Editor
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
THE National security taskforce has intercepted two suspected armed robbers after they were found with a pistol and a black wool ninja mask along the Limpopo River.
The two, Terrence Tiyengani (23) and Narvick Mhowa (26) were arrested on Thursday evening near the Pountain Base, some 60km east of Beitbridge Border Post.
National Police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the duo was intercepted by an alert security team soon after crossing illegally from South Africa.
“They were initially arrested for illegal migration and a search of their belongings was conducted leading to the discovery of one Star Pistol/CZ9MM Parabellam , a magazine with one round, one pepper spray, one black pouch, two pairs of black industrial gloves and one black wool ninja mask,” he said.
“We suspect they could be part of some armed robbers who are conducting crimes between Zimbabwe and South Africa’s border. However, the matter is still under investigations and so far, they are being charged for illegal migration and unlawful possession of a fire arm”.
Assistant Comm Nyathi said the security forces will not relent on their quest to bring sanity along the country’s borders.
He said the police will not take lightly smuggling of goods and border jumping.
The senior police officer said deployments had been adequately made to deal with crime along the border and all crime hotspots in the country.
“Let those who are in the habit of smuggling firearms and ammunition through the borders be warned. Their days are numbered. We are very concerned with a wave of armed robberies and hence we won’t relent,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.
He said it was critical for people to use legal channels to travel and import or export goods.
In January this year, Government deployed the NTF to deal with crimes along the border with South Africa, under the operation “No to Cross-border Crimes-Fasi Ngamilandu Yamukanuni Yamashango-Mhosva Pamiganhu Ngadzipere- Amacala Kawaphele Emingceleni Yelizwe”.
Over 70 000 people have been arrested for various offences between January and November this year under the same operation. – @tupeyo
Online Reporter