Bigboy Nampungo Sentenced to 30 Years for Armed Robbery at Chivayo In-Laws’ Farm

Bigboy Nampungo was sentenced to 30 years for his role in a violent robbery at Wicknell Chivayo’s in-laws’ farm, where $74,000 was stolen. He pleaded guilty while his co-accused await trial. The robbery involved multiple armed attacks on security guards.

In a recent trial, Bigboy Nampungo, a 27-year-old from Chitungwiza, received a 60-year sentence for his involvement in an armed robbery at businessman Wicknell Chivayo’s in-laws. He was convicted on six counts of armed robbery. However, he will serve an effective sentence of 30 years, as three of these counts will run concurrently.

Nampungo, alongside his co-accused—Garikai Shangwa, Temptation Dinhidza, Arnold Tafirei, Tawanda Mushayatu, Mike Mhaka, Maramba Vhiya, and Takudzwa Maisvoreva—who are currently in custody awaiting proceedings until April 10, pleaded not guilty to the charges. Nampungo admitted to the armed robbery during the trial and confirmed the incident involving six victims at Alpha and Omega Farm on March 18, 2025.

The assault commenced around 1 A.M., where Nampungo and his accomplices, armed with rifles and other weapons, executed their plan of attack. They initially confronted security guard Petros Mabhunu, severely assaulting him to gain information about the other guards and subsequently bound him.

Following this, they overpowered Zex Mutasha Rusike, another farm guard, disarming him of his weapon before proceeding to confront Medic Zhakata, inflicting additional injuries. On entering the house, they employed bolt cutters to breach the security, leading to the theft of approximately $74,000 in cash and valuable items.

Fearful for their safety, the complainants surrendered large sums, including $18,000 from one victim. As the robbery unfolded, Elphas Maruta, a third guard, attempted to intervene but exchanged gunfire with the assailants before they fled the scene.

Bigboy Nampungo’s sentencing highlights the serious consequences of armed robbery, particularly given the violent nature of the crime against security personnel. His guilty plea to six counts reflects his admission of involvement in this alarming incident that resulted in significant financial loss. The ongoing custody of his co-accused suggests that legal proceedings will continue to address this matter.

Original Source: www.zimlive.com