Reference is made to the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s press statement released on 28th March 2025 regarding the shooting of a police officer, Sergeant Abel Masava, in Sizinda, Bulawayo at 0030 hours.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Mandlenkosi Albert Munangati (26), Clifford Desmond Nare (33) and Thabo Dube (24) in connection with the murder case. The firearm used to kill the police officer has been recovered from the robbers.
The suspects are also linked to a spate of armed robbery cases in Bulawayo which occurred between 22nd April 2024 and 28th March 2025.
On 30th March 2025 detectives received information which linked a Honda Fit vehicle, registration number AGG 8380 to the murder case and a spate of armed robbery cases in Bulawayo. The detectives tracked the vehicle leading to the arrest of Mandlenkosi Albert Munangati. The suspect implicated the other suspects leading to their arrest and recovery of five firearms, National Browning pistol , Blow F92 Blank pellet gun, Long Rifle 12GA 76/3 inch long, Vizor Pistol, shot gun and a sword.
Two other suspects, Sipho Ncube (24) and Dumisani Ndlovu (32) tried to escape resulting in a shoot out with detectives along Harrow Street, Saucetown, Bulawayo. The two suspects died upon admission at United Bulawayo Hospitals.
The suspects are being linked to 25 cases of armed robbery including a case which occurred at a supermarket in New Luveve on 28th December 2024, where cash and three cellphones were stolen and another robbery case which occurred at a funeral parlour in Kelvin North, Bulawayo on 10th February 2025 where USD 3 608.00 and ZAR 21 130.00 cash and a cell phone were stolen.
The suspects are also clearing a case of robbery which occurred at a service station at corner Nketa drive and Rangemore Road on 02nd March 2025 where a shot gun and a cellphone were stolen.
Investigations have revealed that the suspects were targeting service stations (fuel), liquor outlets, supermarkets, funeral parlous and gas operators.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police applauds the public for providing positive information which led to the arrest of the suspects. The public is urged to continue providing information on National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631 or WhatsApp on 0712 800 197 or report at any nearest Police Station.
The Police reiterates that there is no going back in the fight against robbery syndicates in the country. The law will take its course without fear or favour.
(NYATHI. P) Commissioner
Chief Staff Officer [Press and Public Relations]
to the Commissioner-General of Police
Police General Headquarters