Wicknell Chivayo In-Laws’ US$74,000 Raid Ends With 950 Years For 18 Robbers
Eighteen armed robbers have been sentenced to a combined 950 years in prison following the US$74,000 raid at Wicknell Chivayo’s in-laws’ farm in Marondera, which happened just days after his lobola ceremony.
The gang attacked Alpha Omega Farm shortly after 1 am on March 18, 2025. The robbers were armed with rifles, pistols, machetes and iron bars before overpowering and restraining security guards.
Chivayo’s Lobola And The Marondera Raid
The robbery came 10 days after Chivayo’s traditional marriage ceremony to Lulutani “Lulu” Muteke on March 8, 2025.
Chivayo had confirmed that he sent US$75,000 (about R1.22 million) to his in-laws to assist with preparations for the ceremony. He also denied reports that he had paid US$300,000 (about R4.88 million) in lobola.
The timing of the robbery subsequently attracted attention.
Robbers Took US$74,000 From The Farm
According to the supplied court evidence, Gerald Muteke surrendered US$18,000 after being confronted in his bedroom.
The robbers then demanded access to a safe and took another US$55,000 (about R895,560). Other property was also stolen during the attack.
The court report states:
“The gang eventually gained access to the safe and took another US$55,000.”
The robbery ended after Elphas Maruta arrived with a .303 rifle and exchanged gunfire with the attackers, who then fled.
18 Robbers Receive 950-Year Combined Sentence
Harare regional magistrate Musaiona Shortgame sentenced the 18 convicted offenders to prison terms totalling 950 years.
The actual time each offender will serve may differ because some sentences could run concurrently.
The case followed an investigation that resulted in numerous arrests, including that of Bigboy Nampungo, who was separately sentenced in April 2025 after pleading guilty to robbery charges.
The latest sentences mark the conclusion of the prosecution involving the 18 convicted robbers.
The robbery remains notable for both the amount of cash taken and its timing, coming shortly after Chivayo’s lobola ceremony.
The post 950 Years For 18 Robbers Over US$74,000 Raid On Wicknell Chivayo’s In-Laws After Lobola appeared first on iHarare News.
