Armed robbery suspect shot dead after confronting officers in Bulawayo, ZRP says

Police in Bulawayo shot dead a suspected armed robber in Norwood in what they described as an exchange of gunfire, and arrested two other suspects.

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi named the man who died as Average Ndlovu (23), also known as SaAaron. The two men arrested are Austin Nkomazana (23) and Nkosikhona Ndlovu (23).

Nyathi said police had been tracking the three in connection with five robberies in Umguza on 18 and 19 October 2026.

“In one of the cases which occurred on 19th October 2026 at around 0345 hours, the suspects, who were armed with machetes, axes and knives, attacked a woman and her three children at their home in Umguza. They allegedly stole US$2 000 in cash and other valuables valued at US$2 460,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

“In another incident which occurred on 19th October 2026 at around 0144 hours, the suspects allegedly broke into a complainant’s house and robbed him of US$ 300 cash and other valuables before fleeing in the complainant’s Honda Fit vehicle. The vehicle was later abandoned after being involved in a road accident.”

Nyathi said officers tracked the suspects to a bushy area near Plot 30 in Norwood, where, according to police, a shootout broke out.

“Acting on the reports received and with the assistance of Police Canine, the officers swiftly tracked down the suspects and intercepted them at a bushy area near Plot 30, Norwood,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

“During the operation, the suspects allegedly attempted to attack and disarm the police officers.

“The officers fired warning shots, but the suspects continued advancing towards them, prompting the police to open fire.

“Average Ndlovu was shot and sustained a gunshot wound to the chest and was rushed to United Bulawayo Hospitals, where he was pronounced dead upon admission.

“Austin Nkomazana and Nkosikhona Ndlovu were subsequently arrested.”

Nyathi warned criminal gangs and individuals involved in violent crime that police will not stand by while officers are attacked in the course of their duties.

He added that any attack on police officers will be met with a lawful and proportionate response.

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