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Maria Chiguvari
FIVE suspected robbers, who masqueraded as police officers and then staged a highway robbery involving US$193 900, have been arrested.
The robbery occurred on Sunday at the 136 kilometre peg along Harare-Masvingo highway in the Makumimavi area, Chivhu.
The suspects are Richard Banda (23), Tawananyasha Nyengerai (21), Lionel Chipenzi (25), Harrison Chiinge (24), and Calos Muwani (23).
From the money that was stolen, police recovered US$100 442.
The suspects posed as police officers and stopped the vehicle.
They snatched a bag containing the money and cellphones before fleeing in their getaway car, a Nissan Note registration number, AGN 2303.
In a statement, national police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said:
“The police confirm the arrest of five suspects in connection with a stage-managed case of armed robbery which occurred on the 4th August 2024 at the 136 kilometre peg along the Harare-Masvingo Road, Makumimavi area, Chivhu.
“The suspects were arrested for stealing US$193 900 cash and a cellphone from a Toyota Hiace vehicle which was travelling from Bulawayo to Harare.
“The vehicle was being driven by one of the suspects, Banda.”
Investigations by detectives linked Banda to the crime, leading to his arrest.
He implicated his cousin, Nyengerai and the other suspects, resulting in their arrest.
The arrests led to the recovery of US$100 442 cash.
Subsequent inquiries revealed that Banda had planned the robbery incident with his relatives and colleagues after getting information from his employer of their travel arrangements.
Online Reporter