Armed robber Daniel Munyanyi, who allegedly shot and killed two police detectives in Zaka last Sunday, has been sentenced to 72 years in jail after being convicted on six counts of armed robbery.
Masvingo regional magistrate Innocent Bepura suspended 10 years, meaning Munyanyi, 50, will serve an effective 62 years behind bars.
Prosecutor Liberty Hove told the court that Munyanyi’s crime spree began on 20 June 2025, when he raided Chief Nhema’s homestead, tied him up with shoelaces, and stole US$10,000, five wristwatches, jewellery, and shoes.
He struck again on 8 December at Tawanda Mandava’s shop at Chinyudze Business Centre in Zaka, making off with US$4,500, US$400 in airtime, a 9mm Star pistol, a Toyota Porte, and groceries.
On 20 December, Munyanyi raided Brighton Mwabvu’s house at Jerera Growth Point, stealing US$781 and a Toyota Mark X. The following day, armed with a pistol, he hit Mandadzaka Business Centre in Bikita, robbing Austin Fungai of US$300 and groceries.
His spree continued into the new year. On 6 January 2026, in Mpandawana Town, Gutu, he robbed Emmanuel Mbanda at gunpoint, taking his Mazda vehicle and an iPhone.
On 29 January, he robbed Caroline Gwanyanya of Musiso Village of US$300 and a Honda Fit, again at gunpoint.
It is alleged that Munyanyi shot and killed two detectives from Harare CID homicide when they closed in on him at his rural home in Chimedza, Zaka, during investigations into these armed robberies.
Following the double murder, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) launched a manhunt, and Munyanyi was eventually cornered and arrested by members of the public in Nyika, Bikita.
He has been remanded in custody until 20 March, when he will return to face two counts of murder.
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