Arron Nyamayaro
A suspected armed robber, Simon Mabaye (55) was arrested at his girlfriend’s house in Dulibadzimu suburb in Beitbridge, which also led to the arrest of his accomplices.
Mabaye, Takemore Mleya (33), Siphelile Mbedzi (47), and Prince Leya (36) robbed a gold buying company in Gwanda, armed with three pistols last Thursday, and had taken two lithium batteries and a laptop.
A security guard had opened fire to scare them away, but they had subdued him and demanded cash and gold.
The police implored the public to reinforce security measures at their premises to avoid falling prey to criminals.
In a statement, Criminal Investigation Department spokesperson, Detective Assistant Inspector Rachel Muteweri, said they were now clearing two counts of armed robbery since arresting the four.
“On August 17 at around 3am, the suspects armed with three pistols, pounced at a registered gold buying company based in Gwanda.
“Sensing danger, a security guard manning the premises opened fire to scare off the suspects.
“They subdued the security guard, manhandled him and demanded cash and gold.
“They ransacked the premises and got away with two lithium batteries and a laptop.
“Detectives got wind that the accused were behind the commission of the crime and they quickly reacted to the information.
“One of the suspects was subsequently arrested at his girlfriend’s house in Dulibadzimu.
“Upon interview, he implicated his accomplices,” said Det Ass-Insp Muteweri.
Detectives made follow ups and arrested the trio at their hideout in Old Dulibadzimu.
A Taurus pistol loaded with a magazine of nine rounds, two pepper sprays and a lithium battery were recovered following their arrest.
Det Ass-Insp Muteweri said the four are expected to appear in court this week.