Four Armed Robbers Shot Dead In Dramatic Warren Park Shootout With CID Detectives

Warren Park Shootout Ends With Four Armed Robbery Suspects Dead

Four suspected armed robbers were shot dead in Warren Park, Harare, following a dramatic shootout with CID detectives on 30 March 2026, while two other suspects were arrested during a police operation linked to a string of robberies that occurred across Harare in February and March 2026.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the incident in a press statement dated 01 April 2026, identifying the deceased suspects as Mike Manyima (37), Office Chanakira (38) and two others identified only as Atenzi and Chris, while Nelson Chitima (28) and Edson Guvira (38) were arrested.

According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, detectives moved in after receiving intelligence linking the suspects to a series of armed robberies across Harare.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Nelson Chitima (28), Edson Guvira (38) and the subsequent death of Mike Manyima (37), Office Chanakira (38) and two other suspects only identified as Atenzi and Chris following a shootout with the police in Warren Park, Harare on 30th March 2026,” said Commissioner Paul Nyathi.

Suspects Lured Into Police Trap

Police said the operation began on 30 March 2026 when detectives from CID Homicide Harare arrested Nelson Chitima at his home in Glenview 7 Extension.

During questioning, Chitima allegedly implicated his accomplices and assisted detectives in setting up a trap.

“The suspect implicated Edson Guvira, Mike Manyima, Office Chanakira, Atenzi and Chris as his accomplices. The suspect’s arrest led to the recovery of a Nissan NV350 vehicle registration number AGO 3840 which they used as a getaway car,” the police said.

Police said Chitima then helped detectives lure Edson Guvira to Mhishi Shopping Centre.

However, the suspect allegedly fled after spotting detectives.

“Upon noticing the detectives, the suspect fled leading the detectives to firing warning shots but he did not stop. Resultantly, the suspect was shot on the leg leading to his arrest,” Commissioner Nyathi said.

Shootout At Warren Park Shopping Centre

Police said further investigations led detectives to Warren Park 1 Shopping Centre, where the remaining suspects were allegedly planning another robbery.

“The police identified themselves and ordered the suspects to surrender. The suspects fired shots at the officers. A shootout ensued leading to the subsequent shooting of the four suspects,” said the Zimbabwe Republic Police.

The suspects were rushed to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals but were pronounced dead on arrival.

Police also recovered several weapons and items believed to have been used in criminal activities.

“Detectives recovered a .70 Vozol pistol with a magazine of three rounds, a .38 Rossi revolver loaded with one round, a Supercat 1911 pellet gun, 35 x 9mm live rounds, eight emulates, four fuses and pepper spray,” the statement reads.

Three vehicles were also recovered, including a Toyota Hiace (AHI 3060), Toyota Passo (AGS 0558) and Honda Fit (AGG 2485).

Linked To Multiple Armed Robberies

Police said the suspects were being linked to several armed robberies committed across Harare.

These include:

25 February 2026 — Kuwadzana 2 Shopping Centre robbery, where goods worth US$500.00 (approximately R9 300) were stolen
26 February 2026 — Aspindale robbery where security guards were attacked and a firearm was stolen
25 March 2026 — Glen Norah liquor store robbery, where alcohol valued at US$1 989.00 (approximately R37 000) was stolen

Police said investigations are continuing.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that there is no going back in the fight against armed robbery cases in the country. Police will decisively respond appropriately to any form of violent confrontation by armed robbery gangs,” Commissioner Nyathi said.