Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura
Mutare Bureau
A group of three armed robbers, wielding machetes, stormed a plot in Headlands during the wee hours on Saturday, demanding cash and other valuables from a defenceless farmer.
The robbers targeted Micheal Fungai Nyamukachi (42), of Yorkshire 11 B, demanding money from him.
Upon discovering that Nyamukachi had no cash, the armed robbers stole his bicycle and some clothing before fleeing.
Manicaland police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the robbery, adding that a manhunt for the suspects has since been launched.
“On July 5, 2025, at around 12am, three unknown individuals, armed with machetes, stormed the complainant’s residence. They kicked open the door of the complainant’s two-roomed house and gained entry.
“Once inside, they ordered the complainant to sit down and demanded cash while ransacking the house. The complainant informed them that he had no money. The accused persons failed to find any cash and instead stole various items, including a jean trouser, black Buffalo bicycle, maroon satchel, black torch, green jersey, brown gloves, and white wool hat.
“At approximately 6am, the complainant managed to recover his Buffalo bicycle, which had been left outside his yard. He reported the matter to ZRP Headlands at 12 noon the same day. Police attended the scene, but no arrests were made. The total value of stolen items is US$183, with US$150 worth of items recovered,” said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka.
There has been a surge in armed robberies targeting farming communities around Rusape since the commencement of the tobacco marketing season.
Farmers with tobacco proceeds are being targeted by armed robbers, who are taking advantage of the lucrative tobacco marketing season. The robbers, often armed with machetes and other dangerous weapons, are storming farms and homes, demanding cash, and valuables, including tobacco bales.
The farmers, who have worked tirelessly to produce and sell their tobacco, are being left vulnerable and defenceless against these brazen attacks. With the rise in armed robberies, farmers are living in fear, and urgent action is needed to protect them and their livelihoods.
The police are urging tobacco farmers not to keep large sums of money at home, following a surge in armed robberies targeting farming communities.
“We advise farmers to deposit their tobacco proceeds into banks or other secure financial institutions, rather than keeping cash at home,” said Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka.
By taking this precaution, farmers can reduce their risk of being targeted by robbers and protect their hard-earned income.
