Gwanda — Three men who terrorised communities in Gwanda, Guyu and West Nicholson during a violent robbery spree have been jailed following their conviction at the Gwanda Magistrates’ Court.
The Zimbabwe National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed that Respect Khumalo (22), Onias Tembo (19) and Mokesi Ndlovu (18) were found guilty of a string of armed robberies committed between September and November 2024.
Armed with a .45 Colt pistol, machetes, pepper spray, axes and stones, the gang targeted homes, shops and business centres. They shot and injured victims, pepper-sprayed and assaulted others before fleeing with cash, alcohol, electronics, and even a vehicle.
Among the most serious crimes were the attempted murder of a Spitzkop resident and the shooting of a security guard at Energy Park Service Station. Loot from the spree included firearms, a Toyota Vitz, cellphones, South African rand, US dollars, alcohol, and household goods.
The trio received the following sentences:
- Khumalo – 32 years’ effective imprisonment
- Tembo – 16 years’ effective imprisonment
- Ndlovu – 4 years’ effective imprisonment
In a statement, the NPA said the outcome served as a stern warning to would-be offenders.
“Violent crime will not be tolerated. The safety of our communities remains our top priority,” the authority said.