Story by Parvel Makona
A family of five was left traumatised after six armed men stormed their home in Mandara in the early hours of Saturday, assaulting them before escaping with electronic gadgets, groceries and other valuables.
What had begun as a quiet weekend was shattered just after 2am when the gang forcibly entered the residence of Dr Edzai Kachirekwa and his family, unleashing about 30 minutes of terror.
According to available information, the intruders tied up the family, assaulted them with machetes and ransacked the house in search of cash and valuables.
“The gang, comprising six men, forced entry through the lounge, tied us up and assaulted us with machetes whilst demanding cash. They ransacked the house looking for cash as they escaped with groceries, electronics and some of our valuables,” Dr Edzai Kachirekwa said.
The robbers fled with groceries, laptops and other electronic devices, leaving the family shaken in the aftermath of the ordeal.
In a desperate attempt to seek help, Dr Kachirekwa managed to free himself.
“I managed to untie myself and went to the bathroom, where I climbed to the ceiling and hoisted myself to the roof and alerted the neighbour, who managed to call the police,” he said.
Neighbours responded and alerted authorities following the incident.
Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed the attack, saying investigations were underway.
Police national spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged members of the public to exercise caution and avoid keeping large sums of money at home, while also appealing for information that could assist in identifying the suspects.
“As the Zimbabwe Republic Police, we are aware of the issue, and investigations are currently underway. We appeal to members of the public not to keep large sums of money at home, and also be cautious when discussing and disclosing financial statuses. To anyone with information on these criminals must come through”
Police have since intensified patrols in residential areas as investigations continue.
