Three suspected armed robbers, who were terrorizing and targeting people holding large sums of money in Bulawayo and Matabeleland South province, have been killed after an exchange of gunfire with police.
Police identified the suspects as Pride Moyo (29 years old), Nyoman Ncube and Ntokozo Ncube. They were shot dead during an incident that occurred at the Tuli River in Gwanda at midday on Tuesday.
National Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident.
“Based on a tip-off, Bulawayo CID investigators intercepted four armed robbery suspects traveling in a green and white Toyota Hiace near the Tuli River on their way to the Freda Mine. Upon seeing the detectives, the suspects began shooting at “Police officers, an exchange of gunfire ensued. As a result, Pride Moyo, Nyoman Ncube and Ntokozo Ncube were shot and taken to Gwanda District Hospital where they died on admission.”
Investigators were able to recover a .38 SPL pistol with two live rounds, three spent cartridges and two pellet guns from the suspects’ vehicle.
Assistant Comm Nyathi said the suspects were linked to two robbery cases and an attempted murder case.
In one case of a robbery that occurred on June 30, 2023 at Insindi Ranch House, the suspects, who were armed with handguns, a hunting knife, grips and paper spray, attacked two victims before stealing $7,800 in cash and a FN 9mm pistol-mounted pistol. A 13-round magazine, a .38 cadix pistol, and $200 worth of jewelry. In another robbery case that occurred on 1 January 2024 in Plumtree, suspects armed with firearms attacked a victim before stealing US$74,000, R25,000 and a car.
The suspects are also linked to an attempted murder case that took place in Cowdray Park on August 1, 2023, in which three police officers were injured during a shootout.
Meanwhile, the police are appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of Simeloyinkosi Dube who managed to flee the scene during the exchange of gunfire.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges the public to report movements of criminal gangs to the police on National Complaints Bureau number (0242) 703631 or WhatsApp on 0712800197 or report at any nearest police station,” Ast Comm Nyathi said. Announce
