Bulawayo, (New Ziana) –The three suspects apprehended after a shoot-out with detectives in Luveve high-density suburb last week have been linked to a murder and 10 armed robberies that took place in Gwanda between May 26 and November 17 this year.

The suspects, identified as Moketsi Ndlovu (18), Respect Khumalo (22), and Onias Tembo (19), were arrested following a police operation prompted by a tip-off and detectives tracked them to their hideout, leading to their capture.

The confrontation began when the suspects opened fire on police officers, who responded, leading to their disarmament and arrest. At the scene, officers recovered a 9mm FN Browning pistol loaded with three live rounds, along with eight spent cartridges.

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that the suspects are linked to the murder committed on May 26 at Buvuma Village in which Unkemetsi Maphosa (32) was fatally shot with a pistol during a botched robbery.

“They are also linked to a robbery on September 12 at a shop in Fumukwe, Guyu, where 23 000 South African Rands, USD$60 in cash, and a Honda Fit vehicle were stolen,” he said.

Comm Nyathi further stated that the suspects were involved in another robbery at a Gwanda shop where ZAR 10 000 and USD$100 were taken.

“Additionally, they are also connected to a robbery at Pulipeli Village, Marupi, Gwanda, where they made off with a Toyota FunCargo vehicle, USD$4 520, and ZAR 11 910 in cash,” he said. He said the trio is also linked to a string of car thefts reported between July and November 2024.

Meanwhile, police are appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of three outstanding suspects identified as Litsha Prince Billiat Moyo, Wisdom Wilson Musundire (25), and Precautious Moyo.

New Ziana