Armed Robbery Suspect Arrested After Violent Home Invasion in Dzivarasekwa

Munyaradzi Mashiri

A man, allegedly part of a gang of armed robbers who raided a house, has been arrested.

Tapiwa Matope, 23, from Dzivarasekwa Extension, appeared at the Harare Magistrates' Court facing charges of armed robbery. 

According to the State, on October 9, 2024, at around midnight, Matope and his accomplices, who are still on the run, devised a plan to rob a local resident. Armed with an unidentified pistol, machetes, and a hammer, they reportedly went to the complainant's home at 5110 Dzivarasekwa Extension.

Upon arrival, the gang is said to have fired three warning shots into the air, forcibly broke down the door with a hammer, and stormed into the house. 

Once inside, they allegedly restrained the complainant and his wife by tying their hands and demanding cash.

The victims initially handed over US$1 250, but Matope is said to have insisted on more. The gang then proceeded to ransack the house, eventually stealing an additional US$2 000 along with two Samsung phones, before fleeing the scene.

Matope's accomplices remain at large as investigations continue.