Ecobank Heist: Police Arrest Third Man Linked To US$4 Million Robbery
Police have arrested a third suspect in the US$4 million (approximately R72 million) Ecobank heist that shocked Zimbabwe last year. This latest development comes just days after the arrest of two brothers in South Africa connected to the same high-profile robbery.
Suspect Nabbed In Botswana
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has confirmed the arrest of Bhekani Milio (39) in Botswana on 14 July 2025. He was allegedly attempting to cross into Botswana from South Africa when authorities caught up with him.
In a press statement issued on 18 July 2025, police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said:
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of another suspect, Bhekani Milio (39), in connection with the armed robbery case.
The suspect was arrested on 14th July 2025 in the Republic of Botswana as he was attempting to enter the country from South Africa.”
He added that extradition proceedings were underway to bring Milio back to Zimbabwe.
“The due processes of the law are now taking effect for the suspect’s extradition to Zimbabwe.”
Two Brothers Arrested In South Africa
Just days earlier, on 5 July 2025, South African authorities arrested Abraham Temayi Vumbunu and Elijah Temayi Vumbunu. The pair are believed to have played a key role in the 3 October 2024 armed robbery at Ecobank in Bulawayo.
In an earlier statement dated 6 July 2025, Commissioner Nyathi confirmed:
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Abraham Temayi Vumbunu and Elijah Temayi Vumbunu in connection with the USD4 million Bulawayo Ecobank robbery heist which occurred on 3rd October 2024.”
He added:
“Extradition procedures are now underway to bring the two suspects back to Zimbabwe to face justice.”
Police Still Hunting Other Suspects
The police are still searching for other individuals believed to be connected to the crime. Commissioner Nyathi warned:
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is still pursuing the arrest of the other suspects who are linked to this case.”
He also urged media outlets and the public to allow investigators time to complete their work:
“We urge the media to be cautious and patient in reporting events relating to the Ecobank robbery as leads on the suspects and their activities unfold.”
Past Arrests, Withdrawn Charges & A Web Of Mystery
Before these latest arrests, the National Prosecuting Authority had dropped charges against two initial suspects. One of them, Sibonginkosi Sibanda, a security guard, is now facing money laundering charges. His lawyer told the court:
“There was never a credible link between my client and the robbery.”
Detective Tawedzerwa Shiriyapenga testified:
“The robbery case is separate and still under investigation.”
Investigators are now tracing assets allegedly acquired using the stolen funds. These include multiple homes, haulage trucks, and other luxury items. Police believe the suspects operated cross-border criminal networks and used business fronts to launder proceeds.
Authorities are still trying to locate Takafa Vumbunu, also known as Naison Mahembe, who remains on the run.
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