Online Reporter
Danisa Masuku
A footpath predator who used handcuffs and an electric shocker to rob residents has been arrested. Mthetheli Sibanda’s reign of terror in Bulawayo’s western suburbs came to an end when a police cycle unit responded swiftly to a robbery report.
For weeks, Sibanda had been terrorising students from United College of Education (UCE) and hospital staff from Mpilo Central Hospital, targeting those who used narrow footpaths.
“He would hide in the bush or dark corners and pounce on anyone walking alone,” said a source close to the investigations. “He made it a habit to attack late at night when people were most vulnerable.”
But his luck finally ran out.
Officers from the Bulawayo Cycle Patrol Unit responded swiftly after receiving a report of a fresh robbery. They found the shaken victim, and launched a search.
“They tracked him down and caught him hiding behind a thicket,” said the source. “When they searched him, they found a pair of handcuffs and an electric shocker.”
The cuffs and stun device raised even more questions.
“At the station, he claimed the handcuffs belonged to his father and that he bought the shocker himself,” the source added.
Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele confirmed the arrest.
“I can confirm that we arrested a man who used to ambush and rob people near UCE and Mpilo Hospital. He was found with handcuffs and an electric shocker,” she said.
She also warned the public against using footpaths.
“These areas have become hunting grounds for robbers. It is safer to take a longer route than to risk your life,” she said.
Sibanda now faces charges of robbery and illegal possession of restricted items, and is expected to appear in court soon.
