Gwanda Armed Robbery Gang Jailed

By Andile Vundla

19 August 2025

Three men behind a violent robbery spree in Gwanda, Guyu, and West Nicholson have been jailed by the Gwanda Magistrates’ Court.

Respect Khumalo, aged 22, Onias Tembo, 19, and Mokesi Ndlovu, 18, were convicted for a string of robberies committed between September and November last year.

The gang, armed with a pistol, machetes, pepper spray, axes, and stones, terrorised communities, breaking into homes, shops, and business centres. Victims were shot, pepper-sprayed, and assaulted, with the robbers stealing cash, alcohol, electronics, and even vehicles.

Among the most serious cases was the attempted murder of a Spitzkop resident and the shooting of a security guard at Energy Park Service Station.

The sentences handed down will see Khumalo serve 32 years in prison, while Tembo will serve 16 years and Ndlovu faces 4 years behind bars.

The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe stated that the heavy sentences send a clear message, violent crime will not be tolerated, and the safety of communities remains a top priority.