The ManicaPost
Liberty Dube Post Correspondent
SEVEN machete-wielding armed robbers who pounced at a service station at Birchenough Bridge on Tuesday ran out of luck after police reacted swiftly and arrested one of them before he had escaped with cash and fuel coupons worth more than $5 600.
Police who were on night patrol nabbed one of the accused, Prince Tawanda Maregera at Cellgate Service Station.
Maregera was found in possession of $2 500 and fuel coupons worth $3 196.
“We have since launched a manhunt to bring to book the six suspects who escaped soon after committing the robbery. We appeal to members of the public with information leading to their arrest to contact their nearest police station. Maregera is in police custody and assisting us with investigation,” said Manicaland provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Tavhiringwa Kakohwa.
The incident happened at around 11pm. The seven allegedly gained entrance into the service station premises after cutting the security fence using a pair of pliers.
They also used iron bars to break open a room which two fuel attendants — Chamunorwa Gwamura (37) and Noah Donzvo (56) — were sleeping in.
“The robbers manhandled the two and tied them with ropes. They took turns to assault them with machetes and fists before demanding the safe keys. The two gave in and surrendered the safe keys. They stole $2 500 and fuel coupons valued at $3 196. Maregera was left guarding the two, while the others proceeded to Cellgate Hardware where they intended to rob.
“They used iron bars to break into the hardware. They stole 17 five-litre containers of engine oil. They, however, ran out of luck after a passerby noticed some unusual movements at the premises and alerted police who were on night patrol.
“Police attended the scene and managed to arrest Maregera who was still on guard,” said Insp Kakohwa.
Police recovered all the stolen items which were stashed in Maregera’s satchel.
Upon interrogation, police recovered a white Toyota Noah, Registration Number AEE1150 which was parked a few metres away from the scene.
