Harare, (New Ziana) – Two notorious highway robbers who terrorised travelers along the Masvingo-Beitbridge Road have been sentenced to a combined 144 years in prison following their conviction on three counts of armed robbery.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the jailing of Gift Maphosa (36) and Mpokiseng Dube (27), who were behind a series of brazen attacks that spanned from 13 December 2024 to 22 February this year in Mwenezi, Masvingo.
Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi described the conviction as a major breakthrough in curbing armed robbery on highways.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest and conviction of Gift Maphosa and Mpokiseng Dube for three counts of armed robbery,” he said.
According to police investigations, the two criminals targeted unsuspecting motorists travelling at night, blocking sections of the road with large stones to force vehicles to stop or slow down.
“As soon as motorists attempted to clear the road, the suspects would emerge from the darkness, armed with pistols, and threaten to shoot while demanding cash and valuables,” Com Nyathi said.
In one of the incidents, two victims who resisted the robbers were shot and seriously injured, highlighting the violent nature of the attacks.
The net closed in on the duo on 22 February when detectives received information linking Maphosa to the robberies and his arrest led to the swift apprehension of his accomplice, Dube, in Beitbridge after he confessed and revealed his identity.
Both men were tried at the Chiredzi Regional Magistrate Court, where they were found guilty and handed a combined sentence of 144 years behind bars, with Com Nyathi commending the public for playing a pivotal role in bringing the culprits to justice.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police extends profound gratitude to members of the public for supplying useful information that led to the arrest of the two accused persons. We implore the public to continue supporting and cooperating with the police in fighting crime,” he said.
The conviction is expected to send a strong message to would-be offenders and restore a sense of safety for road users on one of the busiest highways in the country.
New Ziana
