The audacious attack saw intruders storm the businessman’s residence, holding his family hostage before escaping with a substantial amount of cash totaling US$13,000.

The incident adds to growing concerns about the safety of residents in Harare's northern suburbs, highlighting the vulnerability of even seemingly secure homes to determined criminal elements.

Details of the Brazen Attack: Masked Robbers, Hostage Situation

According to confirmation from the Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, the brazen robbery unfolded when a group of three masked men forcibly entered the businessman’s Mt Pleasant home.

The intruders, their faces concealed by masks, quickly took control of the situation, holding the victim's family hostage in a terrifying ordeal. Their immediate demand upon entry was for car keys and cash, indicating a clear motive focused on high-value assets.

Inspector Chakanza provided further details on the perpetrators and their methods. The robbers were armed, with police identifying their weapons as an "unidentified black pistol," a traditional knobkerrie, and an L-shaped wheel spanner.

These tools suggest a readiness to use force and overcome any physical resistance. The robbers wasted no time in asserting dominance.

"They approached the complainant, covering their faces with face masks, armed with an unidentified black pistol, a knobkerrie, an L-shaped wheel spanner and ordered the complainant to lie down whilst pointing the pistol at him, and he complied," stated Insp Chakanza.

This swift action neutralized any potential resistance from the homeowner.

Demand for Cash: Ransacking the Home

After forcing the complainant to the ground at gunpoint, the robbers proceeded to tie his hands behind his back using a black shoelace.

Once subdued, their focus shifted back to their primary objective: obtaining money.

"They then tied his hands behind his back with a black shoe lace and demanded money," Insp Chakanza confirmed.

Fearing for his life and the safety of his family under duress, the victim reportedly directed the intruders to check a wardrobe.

There, the robbers initially discovered ZAR 2,000 (approximately R2,000 in South African Rands).
However, this amount did not satisfy the perpetrators, who pressed for more.

Their continued search and demands ultimately led them to discover and make off with a total of US$13,000.

The systematic nature of the tying and ransacking highlights the professional approach of the robbery gang.

Police Investigation Launched, Community on Alert

The Zimbabwe Republic Police have initiated a full investigation into the armed robbery.

Authorities are now working to identify and apprehend the three masked suspects responsible for the home invasion and theft.

The use of masks and the swift execution of the crime present immediate challenges for investigators.

The incident has understandably left the Mt Pleasant community shaken.

Residents are urged to enhance their home security measures and remain vigilant.

Police have appealed to anyone with information regarding the robbery to come forward and assist with their inquiries.

The focus remains on bringing the perpetrators of this violent home invasion to justice and restoring a sense of security to the area.