Police Arrest Dangerous Beitbridge Highway Robbery Syndicate

The Zimbabwean Republic Police has arrested a notorious, dangerous Beitbridge highway robbery syndicate that had been terrorising travellers.

Authorities have successfully dismantled a violent criminal network that transformed Beitbridge’s alternative routes into hazardous corridors for travellers and transport operators.

Police Arrest Dangerous Beitbridge Highway Robbery Syndicate

Law enforcement officials have taken into custody five individuals believed to be responsible for multiple armed robberies along the Beitbridge-Gwanda Road diversion. The arrested suspects, aged between 25 and 40, include Bornman Ziweni, Believe Shumba, David Ratsauka, Peter Chinhimbiti, and Delight Gwanyanya.

This arrest has been applauded as a big win for the authorities after a couple of months of their highway terror. The five men have been attacking travellers along the road at gunpoint and robbing them.

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Modus Operandi of the Highway Terror Group

According to Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri, spokesperson for the Criminal Investigation Department, the gang operated systematically between April and July 2025:

Targeted slow-moving commercial vehicles and passenger transport
Disabled trucks by severing critical hydraulic and fuel lines
Posed as unsuspecting passengers before attacking drivers
Stole cash, personal belongings, and entire vehicles

Notable Criminal Incidents

The syndicate has been connected to several high-profile cases:

May 10 attack: Ambushed a Scania truck driver during night hours
May 19 robbery: Blockaded the Mazunga detour route to steal US$700 and R2000
June crimes: Commandeered two different taxis through deception, making off with vehicles and cash

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Police Investigation and Recovery Efforts

Authorities have currently linked the group to eight confirmed robberies in Beitbridge and two additional cases in Mwenezi. Investigators have recovered some of the stolen property and urge victims to assist with identification procedures.

Both vehicles taken during the June robberies were later discovered abandoned. The police investigation remains ongoing as officials work to uncover the full extent of the gang’s criminal activities.