MUTARE – Police have arrested seven suspected armed robbers believed to be behind a series of break-ins and violent robberies in Dangamvura and Weirmouth suburbs.
Acting Manicaland provincial police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, confirmed the arrests, stating that the suspects are facing over 20 counts of unlawful entry and robbery.
Authorities have released the names of the accused individuals: Blessing Dhonza, Tatenda Matiya, Tobias Tomboka, Percy Nechironga, Tatenda Ganda, Leeroy Mandisodza, Casper Makombe, and Leon Maindira—all from Dangamvura.
Police say the suspects have been assisting with investigations and were recently taken on-site visits to various locations in Mutare, where they allegedly carried out their crimes.
Images of the suspects have been widely shared on social media, prompting some victims to identify them and report to Mutare Central Police Station.
The gang is accused of using machetes to threaten their victims, primarily targeting households, tuck-shops, and shopping centres. Items stolen included household goods, groceries, mattresses, gas stoves, decoders, and mobile phones.
They also reportedly operated in Penhalonga, particularly at a shopping centre known as PaDonny, where they stole mobile phones and other valuables.
Following a tip-off, the suspects were arrested in Chikanga and taken into custody
Assistant Inspector Chinyoka emphasized law enforcement’s commitment to eradicating crime and ensuring that armed robbers terrorizing residents—particularly in high-density areas—are brought to justice.
“We urge members of the public who lost valuables to visit Mutare Central Police Station to identify their stolen property,” he said.
He also thanked the community for providing valuable information that led to the arrests, stating:
“We will leave no stone unturned in holding these criminals accountable. Community cooperation is crucial in fighting crime, and we appreciate the role played by residents in assisting law enforcement.”
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