Police Crack Down On Robbery Gang Targeting Hitchhikers

Police have arrested seven suspects, including women, in connection with a series of robberies in Harare and nearby areas between July and November 2025.

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the suspects used different vehicles and pretended to be genuine motorists heading in the same direction as their victims.

It is alleged that they offered lifts to the victims and, during the journey, stole cash, mobile phones, and other valuables before dumping them and fleeing.

Following the arrests, police recovered several smartphones, clothing items, and handbags believed to have been stolen during the robberies. Below is a statement from Comm. Nyathi on the arrests:

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of seven suspects, Tawanda Macheka (30), Dennis Manyonga (34), Kudzanai Tirivani (31), Leslie Mudenda (31), Loreen Mundetani (27), Kenneth Pick (39), and Nyasha Gweshe (33), in connection with a series of robbery cases which occurred in Harare and surrounding areas between July 2025 and November 2025.

“On 20th November 2025, detectives from CID Vehicle Theft Squad, acting on received information, tracked and arrested the suspects at their residences.

“Investigations reveal that the suspects used different vehicles to target unsuspecting commuters, posing as genuine motorists travelling to the victims’ intended destinations.

“They would offer lifts to the victims and during the journey, rob them of cash, cellphones and other valuables before dumping them and fleeing the scene.

“The suspects are currently linked to 17 robbery cases, all involving a similar modus operandi where they would ask victims to close car doors with both hands, providing an opportunity to search for and steal valuables.

“Following the arrests, the police have recovered several smartphones, clothing items and handbags which were allegedly stolen during the robberies.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police applauds members of the public for providing credible information that led to the arrest of the suspects.

“We urge commuters to prioritise their safety by using registered and reputable transport services and to avoid private or mushikashika vehicles.”

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