The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of 28-year-old Joseph Phiri in connection with a series of armed robbery cases that rocked Mahatshula suburb in Bulawayo between 15 December 2025 and 13 May 2026.
In a statement yesterday, ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the suspect is linked to multiple violent incidents involving organised criminal gangs that terrorised residents in the area using knives, sjamboks and pistols.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Joseph Phiri (28) in connection with cases of armed robbery which occurred in Mahatshula suburb, Bulawayo from 15th December 2025 till 13th May 2026,” Commissioner Nyathi said.
According to the Police, Phiri initially operated within a criminal syndicate comprising Challenge Lucky Neta (38), Trust Adam Mubvumbi (35) and Wellington Nyakurima, also known as Dombadomba (33), who allegedly carried out seven armed robbery cases targeting unsuspecting victims.
“The suspect initially teamed up with Challenge Lucky Neta (38), Trust Adam Mubvumbi (35) and Wellington Nyakurima alias Dombadomba (33) to commit seven cases of robbery by attacking victims with knives, sjamboks, while armed with pistols,” Commissioner Nyathi noted.
Police confirmed that the three accomplices have since been arrested and are currently in custody at Khami Prison awaiting trial.
Following their arrest, Phiri is alleged to have formed another syndicate and continued committing further violent robberies in Mahatshula East.
“The suspect then formed another syndicate and committed two more cases. He teamed up with Pauros Hadebe alias Mengezi, Oscar Ndlovu alias Mao and Jomo Chomu to attack complainants in Mahatshula East,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
One of the incidents reportedly went viral on social media after a video captured the suspect attempting to break into a house while wearing a maroon and grey bucket hat and a grey jacket.
“In one of the incidents, a video went viral on social media as the suspect who was wearing a maroon and grey bucket hat and grey jacket tried to break into a house,” the police spokesperson said.
The ZRP has since launched a manhunt for the remaining suspects who are still at large, urging members of the public to assist with information that could lead to their arrest.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is appealing for information which may lead to the arrest of Pauros Hadebe, Oscar Ndlovu and Jomo Chomu,” Commissioner Nyathi said.
He urged anyone with information to contact the National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631, WhatsApp 0712 800 197, or report to the nearest police station.
Commissioner Nyathi reiterated the Police’s commitment to combating violent crime across the country.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that there is no going back in the fight against armed robbery cases in the country,” he said.
Meanwhile investigations are continuing as Police are intensifying efforts to dismantle organised criminal networks operating in Bulawayo and surrounding areas.
