Multiple armed robbery suspects denied bail

Philemon Jambaya—Editor

Three suspects, Loernard Zvarova, 30, Dannmore Madhunguza, 27, and Tafadzwa Matsika, 38, were denied bail when they appeared at the Harare Magistrates Court last week. The trio is facing multiple charges, including armed robbery, possession of firearms and explosives, and attempted robbery.

The suspects allegedly went on a robbery spree targeting service stations and other businesses across the country, armed with pistols, machetes, and explosives. According to prosecutor Lancelot Mutsokoti, the gang was involved in a series of well-coordinated attacks on businesses and individuals from February to April this year.

Their alleged crimes include ambushing a man in Eastview, Harare, and stealing US$13,000 and a Toyota Belta vehicle. The vehicle was later recovered stripped in Arcturus. They also reportedly robbed a grocery shop in Concession, tying up eight people and stealing mobile phones and money.

The gang allegedly attacked a service station in Shamva, using explosives to open a safe and steal money. They also robbed Glow Petroleum in Bindura, overpowering a security guard and escaping with US$5,726.70. In another incident, they targeted Leestine Service Station in Eastview, using explosives to open a safe and making off with US$5,500.

However, their attempted robbery at a Mabvuku service station on April 10 was foiled by an alert security guard who opened fire. One suspect was reportedly shot in the leg during the failed heist, but all three fled the scene.

The suspects were arrested on April 15, and police recovered three pistols along with live ammunition and explosives believed to have been used to blow safes. Some of the weapons were allegedly stolen from a local security company.

Magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa remanded the suspects in custody to May 2 pending further investigation. She advised the trio to apply for bail at the High Court due to the seriousness of the charges. A fourth suspect, Kudakwashe Tafirenyika, is already in custody and will be jointly tried with the trio in due course.