Four armed robbers struck the Delta Beverages depot in Rusape on Monday evening, making off with an estimated US$40,000 after blowing open safes containing the cash.
The suspects reportedly cut through the perimeter fence and overpowered three security guards on duty before accessing the safe.
Zimbabwe Republic Police national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the robbery but would not disclose the exact amount stolen, saying investigations are still ongoing. He said:
“Yes, we can confirm that police are handling an armed robbery case where armed robbers attacked the Delta depot in Rusape after subduing security guards and blew the safes.
“We do not have the actual figures stolen at the moment, but we are investigating that robbery case.”
The Manica Post reported a source familiar with the investigation as saying the robbers, who wore balaclavas to hide their faces, struck the Delta Beverages depot during the dead of night and overpowered three security guards on duty.
The armed criminals allegedly seized guns from the guards, ordered them to lock a security dog in its kennel, and sprayed their eyes with pepper spray. They then handcuffed the guards and took their mobile phones.
The robbers reportedly forced the security guards into the company’s cash office, where they used explosives to blow open three safes containing US$40,000. They took all the money and fled into the darkness.
One of the guards later managed to free himself and then his colleagues, before reporting the incident to Rusape Central Police Station.
No arrests or recoveries have been made so far. Police are appealing to anyone with information to contact their nearest station to help catch the suspects.
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