Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro-Herald Reporter
A HARARE woman based in Waterfalls was robbed of US$11 700 after she was tricked into a fake kombi sale on Monday.
Catherine Manonga (42) boarded a commuter omnibus at Zindoga Shopping Centre, which was travelling to the city centre.
The vehicle carried the driver and three other passengers; a woman and two men.
While inside, Manonga admired the neat interior and mentioned she would like to own a similar kombi.
One of the men told her the vehicle was for sale for US$14 000.
After bargaining, they agreed on US$11 000 and Manonga asked the driver to turn back so she could fetch the cash from her Waterfalls home.
She returned with the money and the group drove towards Eastlea, saying they would complete the sale at their garage.
At Athlone Msasa, opposite the Metro Peech turn-off on Mutare Road, one of the men produced a pistol and ordered Manonga to hand over the cash and her cellphone.
She complied and was forced out of the vehicle.
The suspects drove off east along Mutare Road.
Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza confirmed the incident, urging the public to be cautious when negotiating purchases with strangers and to avoid showing large amounts of cash in public.
“Police are investigating an armed robbery case in Waterfalls.
“A woman was duped into a fake car sale deal. Total value stolen is US$11 700,” he said.
