Online Reporter
Zvikomborero Parafini
DANIEL Munyanyi, the man suspected of killing two detectives in a shootout in Zaka, has been arrested while his gang is being accused of a spate of armed robberies, including stealing US$15 from a Harare home.
Four of his colleagues appeared in court in Harare yesterday.
The shootout occurred in Ndume Village, Zaka, on Sunday and resulted in the deaths of Detective Sergeant Bernard Chindeke (38) and Detective Constable Casper Antonio McKenzie Chitsowe (42).
“Reference is made to the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s press statement issued on 1st March, 2026, regarding a shootout which occurred in Zaka,” said national police spokesperson, Paul Nyathi, in a statement.
“The ZRP confirms the arrest of Daniel Munyanyi, 30, at Nyika Area, Bikita, Masvingo, while hiding this afternoon.
“The arrest was effected by members of the public. The firearm used in the commissioning of the murder cases has also been recovered.
“The ZRP commends the people in Nyika for working together with the police to effect the arrest.”
Aphel Muzanenhamo Chiro (34), Nashe Gasva (18), Hughsters Chiro (24) and Spencer Madimutsa appeared before Harare magistrate Jessie Kufa facing armed robbery and attempted murder charges.
According to the State, the quartet was arrested at the scene following the gun battle.
Prosecutors claim that prior to the Zaka incident, the gang had been involved in a series of armed robberies in Harare.
The court heard that on February 27 at around 2am, the gang hatched a plan to rob Juliet Chapura (31) of Retreat, Waterfalls.
It is alleged they armed themselves with a pistol and iron bars and wore police uniforms and balaclavas before forcing entry into her home.
Once inside, they allegedly pointed a pistol at her and demanded cash, taking US$15 before searching the house for more money.
Before leaving, they allegedly told her they had shot her father, Gift Chapura (61), at his home in Rafingora.
The total value stolen in that incident was US$30 and nothing was recovered.
The State further alleges that on February 28 at around 2am, the gang targeted Wellington Mukandabvi (54) at Polokwane Bar in Vantage, Spitzkop, Harare.
They allegedly armed themselves with a pistol, knife and taser and wore balaclavas before entering the bar and closing the doors.
One of them allegedly took US$700 from a bucket at the selling point while demanding more money from staff.
During the robbery, patrons allegedly attempted to apprehend them, leading to a violent confrontation. Tichaona Tafadzwa Chitengu was allegedly shot once on the left buttock, while Rumbidzayi Katembwe, Please Magada and Tendayi Chikwiyo were allegedly stabbed on different parts of their bodies.
They allegedly fired multiple shots before fleeing through the back door to a getaway vehicle.
Property valued at US$1,000 was stolen and items worth US$100 were recovered following their arrest. The State opposed bail, citing the seriousness of the offences.
Magistrate Kufa advised the accused to approach the High Court for bail as they are facing Third Schedule offences.
Mathew Masinge
Whose children are these? I think the parents must come out into the open and apologise for bringing such low lives into society.