Six Jailed for Armed Robbery at Guruve Mine

 

Six men have been sentenced to 12 years in prison by the Guruve Magistrates’ Court for an armed robbery at a mine in Mbire.

On July 9, 2025, Passion Mikiyoni, 24, Shawn Mufandaedza, 38, Carlington Mungazi, 33, Tawanda Chihwani, 37, a serving police officer, Tanaka Mhondoro, 27, and Playmore Sayi, 26, used insider information to plan the robbery.

Disguised in police riot gear and armed with rifles, the group overpowered a security guard, rounded up mine workers, and stole cash, gold, carbon material and cellphones valued at US$7 650.

The robbery was foiled when the mine manager and workers pursued the suspects, forcing them to abandon their getaway vehicle, which contained incriminating evidence.

Forensic analysis later linked firearms, uniforms and spent cartridges to the crime. US$1 000 was recovered.

Two years of the 12-year sentence were suspended, leaving each offender with an effective 10-year prison term.

Several accomplices are still at large.