Suspected Cop Killers Implicated In 50 Armed Robbery Cases

Two suspected armed robbers who were arrested in connection with the murder of police officer Sergeant Abel Masava in Sizinda, Bulawayo, are linked to 25 additional armed robbery cases that occurred between 12 March 2024 and 28 March 2025 in and around Bulawayo.

The three suspects, Albert Munangati (26), Clifford Desmond Nare (33), and Thabo Dube (24), were arrested earlier his month while their two colleagues were shot dead in what the police said was an attempted escape, which resulted in a shootout.

In a statement released on 07 April 2025, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said that in total, the suspects are implicated in 50 armed robbery cases. He said:

In total, the suspects are implicated in 50 armed robbery cases, including a case on 10th April 2024 at Fundisi Mine, Umuguza, where USD 2,704.00 in cash was stolen after the complainant was attacked by suspects armed with pistols, knives, and wooden sticks. Another robbery case occurred on 15th March 2025 at a fuel service station in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo, where ZAR 186,000.00 was stolen.

According to an internal police memo, Masava was responding to a domestic violence situation when he encountered a group of five men dressed in dark clothing.

The now-deceased policeman, who was stationed at the Tshabalala Police Station, was standing next to a police vehicle when he noticed the suspicious group approaching.

Masava stopped the men and asked them where they were coming from and requested that they identify themselves.

The memo details the harrowing moment: one of the men drew a firearm and shot Sergeant Masava in the head. 

He was quickly rushed to the United Bulawayo Hospitals but was sadly pronounced dead upon arrival.

Earlier that night, Masava had left the police station alongside another officer after being alerted to a report of domestic violence. 

As the second officer, the victim, and her friend negotiated entry into the house, Masava remained by the vehicle outside when he was fatally shot.

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