Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – A gang of armed robbers’ luck ran out after one of their members accidentally dropped a wallet containing an Econet sim card and US$1 at the crime scene, leading to their swift arrest.
Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, confirmed the arrest of three suspects linked to a daring robbery at Bambanani Shopping Centre in Gumtree, Bulawayo. The trio made off with valuables and cash but left behind a critical clue that would seal their fate.
The suspects have been identified as Hopewell Ndlovu (32), of Pelandaba West, Emmanuel Masuku, alias Mayibongwe (29), and Israel Zikhali (26), both from Pumula South.
According to Asst Insp Msebele, the incident happened on February 2 at around 8 AM when the suspects allegedly stormed a shop at Bambanani Shopping Centre. Armed with a pistol, the suspects allegedly ordered the shop’s employees, a 30-year-old shopkeeper, a 22-year-old cashier from Nketa 8, and a 53-year-old general hand to lie on the floor.
“One of the suspects proceeded to the counter and stole approximately US700 in cash, along with NetOne and Econet airtime worth US$200. They also took several cellphones, including an Itel P38, an iPhone 11, two small Itel devices, and four unknown phones brought in by customers for charging,” Msebele said.
The robbers fled along Old Esigodini Road toward Gwanda Road, but in their haste, one of them dropped a brown wallet containing an Econet sim card and US$1.
“This seemingly insignificant item became the linchpin of the investigation. “A report was made to the police, who estimated the total value of stolen property at US$1,020. The wallet, recovered from the scene, provided crucial evidence, leading investigators to Ndlovu.
“On February 5, police received a tip-off that Ndlovu was at a house in Pelandaba West, resulting in his arrest. “A search of the premises led to the recovery of an Okapi knife, clothing worn during the robbery, and some of the stolen cellphones,” Msebele said.
Ndlovu’s arrest led to the apprehension of his accomplices, who were found in possession of a 303 rifle (missing its butt, magazine, and rounds) and additional stolen cellphones.
Property worth US$500 was recovered, but one suspect, Mpumelelo Mafu, remains at large.
Asst Insp Msebele commended the public for their cooperation in the fight against crime and urged anyone with information on Mafu’s whereabouts to report at any nearest police station.
“We appreciate the community’s efforts in working hand-in-hand with the police. Together, we can ensure justice is served,” she said.
New Ziana
