Man in court over US$129k city centre robbery

Michael Mashiri

One of the suspects in the robbery of US$128 932 from a woman at the corner of Bute and Leopold Takwira in Harare has appeared in court.

Phineas Takudzwa Maravanyika, 27, of Retreat, Waterfalls, appeared before magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa at the Harare Magistrates’ Courts accused of robbery.

The State, through prosecutor Pardon Dziva, alleges that Maravanyika and his accomplices, Roy Pedzisai Jambaya, Learnmore Chiko, George Mapudzi, Massat and Jussy who are still at large, robbed Bethel Jiri.

On August 21, 2023, at around 2100 hours, the accused who had wheel spanners, followed Jiri, who was collecting daily sales from two shops.

Jiri, who had a Honda Fit, was blocked by the accused at Corner Bute and Leopold Takawira in Harare.

The accused came out of their car and smashed the rear passenger windows of Jiri’s car with wheel spanners and stole US$128 932 which was stashed in two boxes in the back seat.

The accused persons went back to their cars and drove off at high speed.

On September 9, the police were informed that Maravanyika had been involved in a robbery case, leading to his arrest.

As a result, US$128 932 was stolen and only US$26 300 was recovered.

Maravanyika was remanded in custody to September 22.