A wave of violent robberies in Zimbabwe has shocked the nation, with armed criminals targeting both mining operations and businesses in separate incidents across the country in the last week of December. These robberies, which have resulted in the theft of valuable goods, have prompted calls for increased security measures and investigations from authorities.
In the most recent robbery, on December 27, 2024, seven armed assailants raided a mine in Filabusi, overpowering three security guards on duty. Armed with machetes and logs, the robbers stormed a carbon storage room, stealing 250kg of gold-trapping carbon valued at approximately US$22,400. According to national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the police in Gwanda have launched an investigation into the robbery, which took place around 11:00 PM. The perpetrators managed to escape with the precious carbon, which is crucial in the extraction of gold, a key industry in Zimbabwe.
This heist follows a similar incident in Bindura on December 22, 2024, when eight armed robbers raided another mine. The criminals, wielding a rifle, stones, and logs, attacked a security guard before gaining access to a carbon room, where they stole 550kg of pregnant gold carbon worth an estimated US$36,000. In both cases, the assailants appear to have meticulously planned their attacks, overpowering the security guards before making off with the valuable gold-related materials. No arrests have been made, and police continue to investigate both robberies.
Beyond the mining sector, a spate of robberies in commercial areas has also raised concerns about public safety. On December 20, 2024, three armed robbers targeted a financial institution in Harare’s Kamunhu Shopping Centre. Wearing face masks and armed with pistols, the assailants fired shots into the air, creating panic among staff and customers, before demanding cash from the teller. They fled the scene with US$1,500 and R20,000 in cash, escaping in a Silver Toyota Sienta with no registration plates. Police have urged the public to come forward with any information about the suspects.
The crime wave continued in Harare with another robbery on December 19, 2024, at Shamwari Complex in Belgravia. Two unknown robbers attacked a security guard before breaking into a computer shop, where they stole 22 laptops. The police in Harare are actively investigating the case, but the perpetrators remain at large.
These incidents are part of a growing trend of armed robberies in Zimbabwe, which have targeted various sectors, including mining, finance, and retail. The country’s authorities have expressed concern over the rise in such criminal activity and have urged the public to assist with ongoing investigations. Commissioner Nyathi emphasized that anyone with information that could help solve these crimes should contact the nearest police station.
As the investigations continue, Zimbabweans are increasingly concerned about the safety of both businesses and individuals in light of the growing threat posed by armed robbers. The police have vowed to intensify their efforts to apprehend those responsible for these high-profile crimes.