Armed robber killed in shootout, teen arrested

Zim Now Writer

A daring armed robbery gang has been dealt a significant blow following the arrest of two of its members and the fatal shooting of a third during a shootout with police.

The gang, allegedly responsible for a spate of robberies in the Mandara area of Harare since May, was brought to book after a joint operation by detectives from CID Homicide.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrests and subsequent shootout, revealing that Kenneth Chiputura (50) and Jaison Munyapa (18) were apprehended in connection with the robberies. However, their accomplice, Raymond Mugabe (39), met his demise after a fierce exchange of gunfire with law enforcement agents in Domboshava.

The dramatic confrontation unfolded last Friday when detectives, acting on intelligence, swooped on Chiputura's residence in Nhamburo village, Chinamhora. The suspect was apprehended without incident, and a bulletproof vest and a substantial amount of foreign currency were recovered from his possession.

Hot on the heels of this breakthrough, police arrested Munyapa the following day. He was found in possession of a CZ 75 SP-01 pistol and an air gun.

The net tightened around the gang when detectives tracked down Mugabe to a hideout in Dzorwa village, Chinamhora. A shootout ensued, resulting in Mugabe's fatal injuries. A cache of deadly weapons, including multiple pistols, revolvers, and a staggering amount of ammunition, was recovered from the scene.

The trio is believed to be involved in at least two armed robberies in Mandara. In one incident on May 31, a house on Ruwanga Road was targeted, with the assailants making off with US$15 000, firearms, and jewelry. Another robbery occurred on July 23 at a house on Duiker Street, where the gang stole US$1 000 and valuables worth the same amount.

The police are now on the hunt for two other gang members, identified only as Blessing and Mavhunga. They are also working tirelessly to recover stolen property and link the suspects to additional crimes.