Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo Senior Reporter
THREE armed robbers who pulled off a bold daylight robbery at Sai Mart Supermarket yesterday, making off with an undisclosed amount of cash, also mugged the security guard on duty, taking US$70 and his personal documents.
Initially, it had been estimated that US$2 000 had been taken.
The chilling raid happened just before 10AM and left shoppers and staff rattled after one of the robbers fired a single shot inside the store. The bullet reportedly ricocheted off a horizontal pillar, sending people diving for cover as the robbers continued with their operation.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident and said police are closing in on the suspects.
“We are investigating that incident and will release further details in due course,” said Comm Nyathi.
Sources close to the scene told B-Metro that the robbers, believed to be three in number, entered the shop pretending to be customers. Once inside, they pulled out a firearm and ordered everyone to stay still.
One of the shop workers revealed that the security guard, who was manning the entrance, was searched at gunpoint. The robbers allegedly grabbed his wallet, which contained his ID and US$70 in cash.
“They took his wallet with everything inside. He’s shaken, not just because of the money, but also because they now have his personal details,” said the source.
It is still unclear how much cash the robbers made off with from the supermarket’s tills. Witnesses say the attack was quick and calculated.
The gunmen reportedly fled on foot, vanishing into nearby streets before police arrived.
Bulawayo has seen a rise in armed robberies in recent months, with criminals targeting both individuals and businesses. However, police have made several arrests and continue to urge businesses to tighten security and invest in surveillance systems.
“Sai Mart is usually busy around that time. It’s scary to think they just walked in with a gun and did what they wanted,” said a vendor who operates near the shop.
Police are appealing to anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects to come forward.
The Sai Mart robbery serves as a wake-up call for businesses. No one is safe, not even the guards.
