Bulawayo, (New Ziana)–Police in Bulawayo have arrested a notorious armed robber linked to a spate of violent robberies in and around the city stretching from March 2023.
The suspect, identified as Nhlanhla Ncube (36) of Old Magwegwe, was apprehended following a tip-off, ending his eight months reign of terror which he carried out alongside his three accomplices, who remain at large.
Police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele confirmed the arrest and identified Ncube`s accomplices as Leonard Sibanda (23), Farai Sibanda (40) of Cowdray Park, and a third suspect only identified as Prosper.
According to Insp Msebele, the gang’s crime spree began on March 2, 2023, around 10 PM, when they stormed a sports bar in Tshabalala, armed with a pistol and a knife.
“They ordered everyone to lie down, then ransacked the counter, stealing US$1 000, a Techno phone, and a Huawei handset,” she said.
Before fleeing, the suspects also looted two bottles of Amarula, two bottles of Two Keys whiskey, two bottles of Best whiskey, bringing the total value of stolen items to US$1,130.
Msebele said the same night, the gang allegedly struck again at a tavern in Nketa 7, where they forced patrons to the ground and held a 27-year-old female cashier at gunpoint, demanding access to the safe.
“When she failed to supply them with keys, they ransacked the premises, found the keys in another room.
“They stole US$190 in cash which was in the strong room.
“Patrons were then robbed of their cellphones and money, with total losses amounting to US$981,”Msebele said.
She added that on March 16, around 7 PM, the gang targeted a general dealer in Pumula Old Shops, where one suspect pointed a gun at a 28-year-old shop assistant and emptied the till, making off with US$190.
Acting on a tip-off, police raided Ncube’s hideout, leading to his arrest and, after interrogation, he admitted to multiple robberies.
“A search of his home uncovered a tablet, a machete and  a sword knife, work suits, a black AK-SA ARMS A21 blank gun, a  pickaxe and two small axes, “said Insp Msebele.
The total value of stolen property in the cases linked to Ncube stands at US$2 301, with nothing recovered from the robberies.
Msebele commended the public for providing information which led to Ncube’s arrest and urged anyone with information on the remaining suspects to come forward.
“We commend members of the public for supplying information which led to Ncube`s arrest. We urge others with information that may lead in apprehending the remaining suspects to come forward,” she said.
New Ziana
