Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
A 23-year-old suspected robber was fatally shot during a shootout with the police in Bulawayo, as they warn criminal syndicates and individuals involved in violent crimes that the police will not hesitate to use minimum force against anyone resisting arrest.
Two other accomplices were also arrested during the incident.
National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the incident in a statement.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of two robbery suspects, Austin Nkomazana age 23 and Nkosikhona Ndlovu aged 23 and the death of their accomplice, Average Ndlovu aged 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 October 18th and 19th 2026,” he said.
In one of the cases which occurred on October 19, 2026 at around 3:45 am, the suspects, who were armed with machetes, axes and knives, attacked a woman and her three children at their home in Umguza.
They allegedly stole US$2 000 in cash and other materials valued at US$2 460. In another incident which occurred on October 19, 2026 at around 1:44 am, the suspects allegedly broke into a complainant’s house and robbed him of US$ 300 cash and other valuables before fleeing in the complainant’s Honda Fit vehicle.
The vehicle was later abandoned after being involved in a road accident. Acting on the reports received and with the assistance of Police Canine, the officers swiftly tracked down the suspects and intercepted them at a bushy area near Plot 30, Norwood.
During the operation, the suspects allegedly attempted to attack and disarm the police officers.
The officers fired warning shots, but the suspects continued advancing towards them, prompting the police to open fire. Average Ndlovu was shot on the chest and was rushed to United Bulawayo Hospitals, where he was pronounced dead upon admission.
Nkomazana and Ndlovu were subsequently arrested.
Comm Nyathi said: “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.”
