In a tense encounter, police officers shot and killed a suspected armed robber, identified as Godfrey Njoromore (48), as he attempted to evade arrest in Nyatsime, Chitungwiza.
The incident followed the recent apprehension of Benjamin Chipiri (34) in connection with a robbery that took place on December 2, 2023, at a residence in Zengeza 5, Chitungwiza. The stolen items included a substantial amount of US$8,164 in cash, two laptops, three cellphones, solar lights, and a BP testing machine, among other valuables.
The arrest of Chipiri led investigators to track down Njoromore, who tried to flee as law enforcement closed in on him. In an effort to escape, Njoromore was shot in the thigh by detectives from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Homicide on January 6, 2024. He was swiftly transported to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals for medical attention but tragically succumbed to his injuries upon admission.
Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the National Police Spokesperson, confirmed the incident, expressing appreciation for the public’s support in providing valuable information that led to the arrest of the suspects. Nyathi also emphasized the police force’s unwavering commitment to combating local and foreign armed robbery syndicates.
“On January 6, 2024 detectives from CID Homicide acted on received information and tracked Godfrey Njoromore to Nyatsime, Chitungwiza where he was shot on the thigh after trying to evade arrest.
“Subsequently, Godfrey Njoromore was taken to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals where he died upon admission,” Asst Comm Nyathi said.
The arrest of Njoromore resulted in the recovery of significant evidence, including a laptop, solar light, BP testing machine, and an empty magazine from an FN Browning pistol, underscoring the seriousness of the suspected robber’s activities.
According to Asst Comm Paul Nyathi, a total of more than 2,200 armed robbers were convicted by the courts in the previous year alone, with an additional 700 currently undergoing trial. The collaborative efforts of the National Prosecuting Authority and the Zimbabwe Republic Police have intensified the fight against crime, resulting in notable convictions.
In terms of regional statistics, Harare and Bulawayo Metropolitan provinces topped the list of convictions, with 412 male armed robbers and 2 female perpetrators found guilty in Harare, while Bulawayo recorded 189 male convictions. Conversely, Matabeleland North had the fewest convictions, with only two individuals found guilty of armed robbery, followed by Mashonaland Central with just four convictions.
The successful operation in Nyatsime serves as a reminder of the police force’s dedication to maintaining law and order while safeguarding communities from criminal elements. The swift actions of the CID Homicide detectives and their commitment to apprehending dangerous individuals involved in armed robberies exemplify the ongoing efforts to create a safer environment for all citizens.
