Four suspected armed robbers were shot dead while two others were arrested following a shootout with police in Warren Park on March 30, as authorities intensify efforts to curb a surge in violent crime.
National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said the suspects were linked to a string of armed robberies committed in and around Harare between February and March.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Nelson Chitima (28) and Edson Guvira (38), and the deaths of Mike Manyima (37), Office Chanakira (38) and two other suspects identified only as Atenzi and Chris, following a shootout with police in Warren Park, Harare, on 30 March 2026,” he said.
Nyathi said detectives from CID Homicide Harare acted on received information leading to the arrest of Chitima at his residence in Glenview 7 Extension.
Chitima’s arrest led to the recovery of a Nissan NV350 believed to have been used as a getaway vehicle, along with a white balaclava, two pairs of gloves and assorted liquor.
Police later set up a trap for Guvira at Mhishi Shopping Centre. He attempted to flee upon spotting detectives and was shot in the leg after ignoring warning shots.
Further investigations led detectives to Warren Park 1 Shopping Centre, where four suspects were intercepted while allegedly planning another robbery.
“The police identified themselves and ordered the suspects to surrender, but they opened fire, prompting a shootout in which the four suspects were shot,” Nyathi said.
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The suspects were taken to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, where they were pronounced dead on arrival.
Police recovered a cache of weapons and other items from the suspects’ vehicle, including a pistol, a revolver, a pellet gun and 35 rounds of live ammunition. Explosives, mobile phones, identity documents and clothing believed to have been used in the robberies were also recovered.
Nyathi said investigations have linked the suspects to multiple robbery incidents across Harare.
“The suspects are clearing several armed robbery cases,” he said.
These include a February 25 break-in at Kuwadzana 2 Shopping Centre, where goods worth US$500 were stolen, and an attack on security guards in Aspindale the following day, during which a .38 Rossi revolver was taken.
The gang is also linked to a March 25 robbery at a Glen Norah liquor store, where beverages worth nearly US$2 000 were stolen.
Nyathi reiterated the police’s hardline stance against violent crime.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that there is no going back in the fight against armed robbery. Police will respond decisively to any violent confrontation by armed suspects,” he said.
