How Mine robbers unmasked

Zim Now Writer

Bulawayo police have linked armed robbers who raided a cash-in-transit vehicle carrying nearly 12kgs of gold valued at US$ 675 000 from How Mine to Fidelity Printers to four similar cases that happened in the city.

Earlier this month, 13 suspects raided a Securico Security Company cash-in-transit van that was transporting to Fidelity Printers.

Following the arrest of three of the 13, police have connected some to four similar robberies that took place in Bulawayo.

The gang has been fingered in robberies at two financial institutions, a fruits and vegetable wholesale and a grocery shop between May and October.

The robbers made off with a total of US$858 000 and R508 000 in five raids within four months.

Pictures of nine of the armed robbers in the How Mine attack, who are on the run, have since been released by police.

A US$5 000 bounty has been dangled for anyone who may provide details that will lead to the arrest of the suspects.

The suspects include brothers who include Xiba Nkosilathi Tonderai Vumbunu, Abraham Vumbunu and Elijah Vumbunu.

Other suspects have been identified as Israel Zulu, David Sanyatwe, Jimmy Gonyate, Vincent Ishmael Chabikwa, Abbysinia Shuma also known as Dulini, Kelvin and Mike.

Police released photos of Elijah, Abraham, Chabikwa, Shuma, Gonyane, Mike, Kelvin and Zulu.

Bulawayo deputy police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele said investigations linked some of the accused to armed robberies that happened within the city.

“The suspects are also wanted for robbery which occurred at Gain Cash and Carry wholesale situated at the corner of Jason Moyo and 6th Avenue which occurred on 18 May 2022. They are also linked to a raid of Hamara Supermarket situated along Fife Street between 4th and 5th Avenue which occurred on 30 May 2022,” said Insp Msebele.

Ass Insp Msebele said they have also been linked to the robbery of a Mukuru money agency at the corner of 13th Avenue and Herbert Chitepo Street which occurred on August 1 and the armed robbery of CBZ Fife Street branch on September 13.