Foreign Nationals Arrested in Zimbabwe for Gold Robbery Conspiracy

Four foreign nationals were arrested in Zimbabwe for allegedly planning a robbery targeting a gold smuggler. The group has been charged with conspiracy to commit robbery and are scheduled to appear in court on March 18, 2025. The authorities disrupted their plan through coordinated operations, leading to multiple arrests and the recovery of gold and firearms.

In Zimbabwe, four foreign nationals—two from China, one from Singapore, and one from Sierra Leone—have been arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit robbery. They allegedly targeted a Chinese smuggler transporting approximately 4 kilograms of gold to Zambia. The group includes Gohga Kan, 34, a Singaporean; Wu Ke Wen, 35, a Chinese national; and Aruna Saidu and Foday Kamara, both 27-year-old Sierra Leoneans. During a recent court appearance, they were advised to apply for bail at the High Court without entering a plea.

The conspiracy reportedly began on February 27, 2025. Gohga Kan approached local resident Ozias Matsikete, proposing a robbery on a vehicle headed from Harare to Zambia. Kan mentioned having firearms and requested Matsikete’s assistance in recruiting additional suspects. However, Matsikete promptly reported the plan to the Homicide detectives. On March 1, Kan instructed Matsikete to arrange a meeting in Karoi to plan the robbery, as the area’s proximity to Zambia was strategic for their heist.

Police detectives disguised as accomplices met with Kan in Karoi. During this meeting, he explained that the target vehicle would be impeded by potholes as they traveled. Subsequently, on March 8, Kan confirmed that the robbery was scheduled for March 9, and he introduced Matsikete to Saidu and Kamara, stating he would provide them with weapons.

In response, law enforcement launched a coordinated operation to prevent the robbery. Acting on Kan’s tip-off, police intercepted a Toyota Prado at Nyabira tollgate early on March 9, which was occupied by Joseph Phiri and passenger Liu Wieqiang, leading to their arrest. Approximately 4.018 kilograms of gold were found concealed within the vehicle. At the same time, police arrested Saidu and Kamara in Karoi, where they recovered two unregistered 9mm firearms.

The suspects are scheduled to appear in court for further proceedings on March 18, 2025.

The recent arrest of four foreign nationals in Zimbabwe highlights the seriousness of crime involving gold smuggling and robbery. Authorities acted swiftly to prevent the planned heist, showcasing effective collaboration between local residents and law enforcement. This case emphasizes the ongoing challenges posed by illegal gold trafficking in the region.

Original Source: bulawayo24.com