A gang of armed robbers made off with a substantial haul of cash, totaling US$11,187 and R31,300, after raiding Gains Cash and Carry Wholesale in movie-style in Murambinda last week.
Manicaland police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, detailed the incident, explaining that Stanley Chabooka (39), a security guard armed with a rifle and accompanied by a bulldog, was on duty when the robbery unfolded.
According to Assistant Inspector Chinyoka, Chabooka first heard the security alarm sound around 6pm. After investigating, he found no signs of a break-in and assumed everything was in order. However, when the alarm sounded again around 8pm, Chabooka alerted the manager, Mr. Obey Mereka (39), who instructed him to conduct a more thorough inspection of the premises.
“The tied dog began barking, and upon investigation, Chabooka observed five men dressed in black, wearing balaclavas. One suspect was armed with a pistol, while the others carried wooden logs. He attempted to flee, but was threatened and ordered to stop. He complied and was tied up with shoelaces. The suspects inquired about the presence of others, and Chabooka mentioned Kudakwashe Munyoro (36), a driver, who had delivered a truck. The suspects dragged Chabooka to Munyoro’s location and tied him up as well,” Assistant Inspector Chinyoka explained.
The robbers, having subdued the security guard and the truck driver, then proceeded with their plan. While one armed suspect guarded Chabooka and Munyoro, his four accomplices broke the toilet window to gain entry into the wholesale.
“The suspects tampered with the CCTV system and proceeded to cut the safe’s locking system, stealing US$2,016 belonging to Gains Cash and Carry wholesale; as well as US$9,115, and 31,300 Rands belonging to Mukuru,” Assistant Inspector Chinyoka said.
After securing their loot, the robbers fled the scene. It wasn’t until around 4am that Chabooka and Munyoro managed to free themselves from their restraints and report the incident to ZRP Murambinda. Police officers promptly attended the scene to begin their investigation.
The total value of the stolen goods is US$11,187 and R31,300. To date, none of the stolen funds have been recovered.
Assistant Inspector Chinyoka has appealed to the public for assistance in apprehending the perpetrators. “We appeal to members of the community with information related to the case to report to the nearest police station as it is crucial in bringing the fugitives to justice,” he urged.
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