Online Reporter
Midlands Bureau
The police have arrested three suspects in connection with a spate of robbery and rape cases committed in Central Estates and at Moffat Business Centre in Mvuma last year.
Midlands Provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the arrest of Edward Nhokwara (20), Devine Nyasha Gapu (19) and Emmanuel Mavhundutse (22).
“In October 2024, Central Estates residents and shop operators at Moffat Business Centre were terrorised by criminals who pounced on them during the night, threatening them with an axe, demanding cash and other valuables.
“They would also rape women after robbing them of their property,” he said.
Inspector Mahoko said a total of nine cases were reported to the police and investigations were instituted.
“On February 27, Gapu and Mavhundutse boarded a haulage truck in Chivhu on their way to Mvuma.
“Upon disembarking from the truck, Gapu snatched the driver’s wallet which had US$290, 400 rand and identity documents,” he said.
“The suspects then ran into a nearby bush. Investigations were made, leading to the arrest of Gapu and Mavhundutse in Chivhu. They then implicated Nhokwara, who was also later arrested.”
Inspector Mahoko said investigations continued, resulting in the trio being linked to a spate of nine cases of rape and robbery.
“Property worth US$1 095 was stolen and items worth US$271 were recovered,” he said.
Inspector Mahoko said Gapu and Mavhundutse were each sentenced to 20 years in prison.
He said Nhokwara was remanded in custody for sentencing.
