MARTIN MAWAYA
GOKWE-Police have arrested two suspected members of a five man gang linked to a wave of violent robberies that left residents living in fear in Gokwe and surrounding areas.
Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the arrests of Andrew Aunde (20) of Village Masuka under Chief Masuka and Tinashe Muzenda of Village Mashove under Chief Njelele.
The two were arrested last week in connection with 21 cases of unlawful entry and robbery committed since February 23 in and around Gokwe Centre.
Mahoko said the suspects are part of a gang that targeted homes in Sasame, Mapfungautsi high-density suburbs and nearby communal areas under Chief Njelele, forcing their way into houses at night while armed with axes, iron bars and knives.
“They would threaten occupants, demand cash and valuables before ransacking the houses. Those who resisted were assaulted,” Mahoko said.
The gang allegedly stole cash, cellphones and groceries from several households.
Investigations have also linked the suspects to another robbery that occurred at Musasa Business Centre in Shurugwi.
The arrests followed a citizens’ arrest after one of the robbery victims identified Aunde and alerted members of the public who apprehended him and handed him over to ZRP Gokwe.
Police later tracked down Muzenda in the Gokwe central business district.
Mahoko said several stolen cellphones have since been recovered, although the total value of the property is yet to be determined.
Three other suspects identified only as Tanaka, Sydney Ngulube and Magaisa remain at large, with police appealing to the public for information that could lead to their arrest.
