Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – Police have intensified investigations into the Ecobank heist, in which seven armed robbers made off with a staggering US$4.4 million in broad day light on Thursday, by alerting the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol).
Interpol, the world’s largest international police organization, facilitates global police cooperation and crime control.
Speaking during an interactive meeting with the media on Wednesday, Officer Commanding Bulawayo province, Commissioner Wiclef Makamacha, confirmed that the investigation has extended beyond Zimbabwe’s borders.
The Ecobank heist is believed to be the largest bank robbery in Zimbabwean history, with the armed robbers pouncing on the Parkade Centre in broad day light on Thursday afternoon.
“Our investigations are ongoing, and as we speak, we have teams on the ground actively pursuing leads. We are determined to apprehend the culprits,” Makamacha stated.
He emphasized that all teams within the country’s security sector are collaborating to bring the perpetrators to justice.
“Through our Criminal Investigation Department (CID), we have engaged our counterparts across the border. We will provide updates as the situation develops,” he added.
Makamacha urged the media to refrain from speculation and to await accurate information from the relevant authorities.
“Let’s avoid speculation and wait for proper and verified information so we can disseminate accurate details to the public,” he said.
Makamacha commended media practitioners for their commitment to ethical reporting, highlighting the vital role responsible journalism plays in shaping public perception and fostering a safer community.
He encouraged continued collaboration between law enforcement and the media to effectively communicate safety messages and promote awareness of crime prevention initiatives.
The meeting came at a time when Bulawayo is experiencing a renewed focus on crime reduction strategies, with the local authority partnering the police and other stakeholders, including the recent installation of the CloseD Circuit Television (CCtv) system by Safeguard Security company.
New Ziana