BY SAMUEL NJINGA IN MASVINGO.
In a shocking midnight raid on Wednesday, three armed robbers stormed Tavengwa Village in Mwenezi, targeting a local villager, Lynet Matutu, and making off with over R83 000 in cash.
The incident, which occurred under the cover of darkness, has sent shockwaves through the rural village, which falls under the jurisdiction of Chief Murove. The chief confirmed the attack, expressing deep concern over the growing wave of violent crime in the area.
According to reports, the robbers, who were masked and wielding machetes and sharp knives, forced their way into Matutu’s home in the early hours of the morning. Threatening her with the deadly weapons, they demanded cash, and Matutu was left with no choice but to hand over her savings amounting to R83 000.
Speaking to this reporter, Chief Murove condemned the act and urged local authorities to intensify efforts to curb crime in the area. “This is an unfortunate and brutal act. We cannot allow criminals to terrorise our communities like this. We are working closely with law enforcement agents to bring these perpetrators to justice,” he said.
The robbers reportedly fled the scene on foot after the heist, disappearing into the night. Local police have launched an investigation and are urging anyone with information to come forward. No arrests have been made as of yet, but authorities are confident that with community cooperation, the culprits will be caught.
This robbery is the latest in a string of incidents that have raised alarm in the district, with residents calling for increased security measures, particularly in the neighboring Chief Neshuro area and Sarahuru townships. Meanwhile, Matutu is said to be traumatized by the ordeal but physically unharmed.
The police have appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities as investigations continue.