Online Reporter
Freedom Mupanedemo
Midlands Bureau
Police in Gokwe have arrested two suspects in connection with 21 cases of unlawful entry and robbery at Gokwe Centre and surrounding areas.
Midlands Provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, said the duo, who are part of a five-man gang, had been targeting homes at night, threatening occupants with axes, iron bars and knives while stealing cash, cellphones and groceries.
“Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of two suspects, members of a five-man gang, in connection with 21 cases of unlawful entry into premises and robbery. The two were arrested on 2 March 2026 for offences committed over a period of time, dating back to 23 February 2026 in and around Gokwe Centre,” he said.
Insp Mahoko said Andrew Aunde and Tinashe Muzenda have also been linked to one case of unlawful entry into premises and robbery, which occurred at Musasa Business Centre in Shurugwi.
In Gokwe, he said, the most affected areas were Sasame, Mapfungautsi high-density suburbs and surrounding communal areas under Chief Njelele.
“The two arrested suspects have been identified as Andrew Aunde (20) of Village Masuka, Chief Masuka, and Tinashe Muzenda of Village Mashove under Chief Njelele in Gokwe. The other three suspects, so far only known as Tanaka, Sydney Ngulube and Magaisa, are still at large,” he said.
Insp Mahoko said the gang was so daring that they would force open dwelling premises at night and threaten occupants with axes, iron bars and knives.
He added that they would then demand valuables and ransack the premises, targeting cash, cellphones and groceries.
“The arrest happened after one of the robbery victims identified suspect Andrew Aunde and got assistance from other members of the public to effect a citizen’s arrest,” he said.
“They handed him over to ZRP Gokwe. Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of the second suspect, Tinashe Muzenda in Gokwe Central Business District.
“Following the arrest, several stolen cellphones have been recovered. The total value of the recoveries is yet to be ascertained.”
Insp Mahoko appealed to members of the public to contact any police station with information that might lead to the arrest of the other three suspects.
“We also thank members of the public for their continued support in our work. This indeed gives meaning to the adage that ‘the fight against crime is everyone’s responsibility’,” he said.
