MARTIN MAWAYA
KWEKWE—Police in Kwekwe have arrested a recently released prisoner in connection with a spate of robberies in the city, the Midlands province police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko told The Midweek Watch.
The suspect, Leonard Mugashi (24) (pictured above), also known as Shato, of no fixed abode, was arrested yesterday at around 8am after he was intercepted while allegedly attempting to attack a woman at her home in Mbizo 11.
Mahoko said Mugashi threatened to stab the woman with a knife before attempting to flee.
Police officers fired warning shots ordering him to stop, but he continued running and was subdued after being shot once on the kneecap.
A search conducted after the arrest led to the recovery of an okapi knife and clothing items police believe were worn during the commission of robberies in and around Kwekwe.
Investigations have so far linked Mugashi to three robbery cases committed in Mbizo 8, 2 and 22, where he allegedly acted in the company of two accomplices still at large.
The gang is said to have been armed with knives, an iron bar and an axe.
In the reported incidences, two victims, Zivanai Machekera and his wife, Estery Faki were struck with an iron bar after they resisted the attackers.
The suspects allegedly stole US$415 and various clothing items from three houses.
Insp Mahoko commended members of the public for cooperating with the police investigations and appealed for continued assistance to help arrest the two outstanding suspects, who are known only as “Mandebele”.
He also warned criminals that they risk being shot if they confront or resist lawful arrest, adding that police would not hesitate to use force where necessary in terms of the law.
