Violent Armed Robbery Cases Surge 4% In Zimbabwe

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has recorded a 4% rise in violent armed robbery cases between January and August this year.

Deputy Police Commissioner for Administration, Leny Ncube, disclosed the figures while giving oral evidence before the Defence, Security and Home Affairs Parliamentary Portfolio Committee.

He said that although general robbery cases dropped by 8% during the same period, armed robberies, the most violent category, remain a serious concern. He said:

“Our analysis of crime statistics for the period January to August 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, reveals a different picture. We have recorded an overall 8% decrease in total robbery cases.

“However, there is a concerning 4% increase in the most violent category, robberies committed using firearms.”

Ncube said the shortage of resources was undermining the police’s ability to effectively combat armed robberies. He said:

“While government has over the past years availed operational vehicles, we continue to experience shortages as our ageing fleet is susceptible to breakdowns, hampering rapid response to crime scenes.

“The sad reality is that we are often outpaced by criminals using high-powered vehicles.”

According to Ncube, the ZRP requires 9,320 vehicles but currently has only 2,830. Of these, 1,007 are grounded due to mechanical faults, leaving just 1,823 operational.

He also revealed that criminal syndicates are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with some involving former members of the security services who bring specialised skills to their operations.

These groups, he said, are using cloned vehicles, counter-intelligence tactics, and advanced technologies, leaving the police poorly equipped to keep up. Said Ncube:

“We lack advanced technology to monitor the movement of sophisticated and transnational criminals.

“In today’s environment, where criminal activity is being propelled by technology, technology-driven policing ceases to be a luxury; it is now essential if we are to remain relevant.”

To curb the rise in armed robberies, the police are urging businesses to invest in security measures such as working CCTV and alarm systems.

More: NewZimbabwe.com