Security Guard Dies After Violent School Robbery In Mabelreign
A security guard stationed at Hallingbury Primary School in Mabelreign has died following a violent robbery attack, as Ward 17 leaders call for urgent action amid a surge in armed robberies across the western suburbs of Harare.
The fatal incident, confirmed on April 14, 2026, has intensified fear among residents in Mabelreign, Sunridge, Greencroft and Westgate, coming just days after armed robbers disarmed police officers and later raided an orphanage using a stolen Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) rifle.
Ward 17 Councillor Reverend Happymore Gotora said the latest attack marked the second robbery-related death within two weeks, warning that the community is increasingly living in fear.
“Today we woke up to sad news once again in our Ward as we lost a life due to robbers. A security guard who was manning Hallingbury Primary School was severely assaulted by robbers and later died at the hospital,” said Gotora.
He added that the violence has created widespread panic in nearby suburbs.
“This is the second time in a fortnight that we have lost lives due to robbers. This has caused great security concerns in our neighbourhoods, and something needs to be done as a matter of urgency to protect and enhance the security of our residents.”
Police Promise Intensified Night Patrols
Councillor Gotora said he visited Hallingbury Primary School and later engaged the police at Mabelreign Police Station over the growing crime wave.
“After a lengthy discussion, the deputy officer-in-charge assured me that starting from today, they will be conducting intense night patrols in all suburbs in our Ward,” he said.
He further revealed that additional units have been deployed.
“They have beefed up their patrol teams with forces from other departments such as CID, Dog Section and Support Unit.”
The fatal robbery comes just four days after a dramatic attack on police officers in Mabelreign on April 10, 2026, when three armed suspects ambushed officers during a midnight patrol.
During that attack, robbers assaulted three officers and stole a Heckler & Koch G3 rifle, two mobile phones and a white Nissan Tiida. The officers were later hospitalised at Parirenyatwa Hospital.
Robbers Strike Orphanage Using Stolen Rifle
On April 13, 2026, armed robbers reportedly used the stolen police rifle to raid the Village of Hope Institution in Westgate, stealing more than US$30,000 (approximately R555,000).
According to reports, three suspects spent nearly an hour ransacking offices before fleeing with cash, after overpowering security guards.
Institution director Richard Chimbetete described the incident:
“Three armed men ransacked offices belonging to the institution, including those of the bishop, social workers, the director and finance, for nearly an hour before fleeing with cash.”
Authorities later recovered the stolen police rifle at the scene following a struggle.
Residents Urged To Stay Alert
Councillor Gotora urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid opening doors at night.
“Let us not open doors during the night, even for the people we know, as they may have come under duress from robbers. Let us immediately call the police if something unusual or suspicious is happening.”
Investigations into the fatal attack and the broader robbery spree are ongoing.
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