Trio jailed 102 years for robbery

The pair was accused of murdering Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services officer, Tapiwa Mutyasira (29), whose body was dumped along the Mutare-Harare railway line, where it was crushed into pieces by a goods train

Tinotenda Muronzi (26) of Nyahukwe village in Rusape appeared before Rusape magistrate, Mr Tendai Mahwe, who convicted him of robbery and sentenced him to an effective four years after suspending one year on condition of good behaviour.

Prosper Dembedza

Herald Correspondent

Three robbers who robbed and raped victims in Harare have each been sentenced to 34 years in jail after being convicted of three counts.

Tobias Gijima (28), Akim Tadiwa (31), and Takudzwa Ndawana (29) were found guilty of rape and robbery after a full trial.

In his ruling, Harare magistrate, Mr Solomon Jenya said there was overwhelming evidence linking the trio to the offences.

He also said the crimes were committed under aggravating circumstances.

Prosecutor Sherlynn Sadomba proved that in one of the cases, the three raided a company premises in Waterfalls at night and attacked a security guard before stealing various goods and equipment.

They left a note stating: “Next time you should leave some cash or else we will follow you to your houses and rob you.”

The State proved that the gang also raided another house in Waterfalls, where they robbed six people of a Toyota Hiace and various groceries before raping one of the complainants.

The court heard that the gang also raided Rainham Farm, where they stole guns, cellphones, and some clothes.

The trio also stole a truck at the farm, loaded their loot into it, and disappeared from the scene.