Robbery at Chivayo Inlaws’ Farm: $75,000 Stolen by Armed Gang

Up to 20 armed men raided Chivayo’s inlaws’ farm in Marondera, stealing $75,000 tied to his bride price. The organized gang subdued the guards and threatened occupants into handing over cash and valuables before fleeing, despite a neighbor’s intervention. Law enforcement has initiated an investigation, recovering evidence from the scene.

In a brazen raid on a farm belonging to the inlaws of businessman Wicknell Chivayo, a group of up to 20 armed men seized US$75,000 in cash and various personal belongings early on Tuesday morning in Marondera. The cash is reportedly linked to a bride price for Chivayo’s marriage to Lulu Muteke, although he has disputed the amounts publicly.

Following the incident, local authorities were alerted after gunshots rang out, prompting Chivayo’s father-in-law, Christopher Mudzingwa Muteke, to send an SOS to a farmers group. Initial attempts at assistance faltered upon the realization that the situation involved a well-organized group of armed men executing a “military-style operation.”

The Alpha Omega Farm was secured by three guards from a private security firm, along with a fourth employed by the Muteke family. One guard, tied up by the gang, witnessed approximately 19 armed men approaching the property. Despite the presence of security, the gang quickly overpowered the guards.

Gerald Muteke, an occupant of the house, was coerced into handing over $18,000 in cash along with a pistol and two high-end smartphones when confronted by the intruders. Vimbai Muteke, another resident, surrendered $1,100, her mobile phone, and the keys to a safe from which the robbers ultimately secured an additional $55,000.

A nearby neighbor intervened, firing two warning shots, which led the armed robbers to flee the scene after discharging shots of their own during their retreat. Law enforcement has since recovered an iron bar left behind by the assailants for fingerprint analysis. In a response to the incident, Chivayo expressed unawareness of the robbery, stating, “I’m not aware (of the robbery). No-one has told me.”

This incident highlights security vulnerabilities even in guarded properties, particularly in targeted thefts involving organized crime. The significant amount of cash stolen has raised questions about safety among affluent individuals in Zimbabwe. The quick response from local farmers and a neighbor underscores community vigilance but also indicates the need for improved security measures against armed robberies.

Original Source: www.zimlive.com