Bla Matsotsi: The Man, the Myth, the Terror Master

Bla Matsotsi, Chitungwiza’s notorious “terror master,” has been rearrested after a brief escape and new armed robberies (image source)

CHITUNGWIZA — The brief freedom of Aluis Luciano, notoriously known as Bla Matsotsi, sent waves of fear through Chitungwiza’s suburbs before his rearrest earlier this week. Authorities say Matsotsi’s escape from custody and subsequent armed robberies between October 13 and 14 revived memories of the violent street reign that earned him his infamous reputation as the “terror master.”

According to police reports, on October 13, Matsotsi allegedly attacked Obert Chamunorwa (23) at Huruyadzo Shopping Centre, threatening him with a knife before fleeing with US$85. The following day, he reportedly confronted Memory Matanga, a heavily pregnant woman near St. Mary’s Clinic, demanding cash and valuables. Both victims later positively identified him in police line-ups, prompting a swift dragnet operation.

Resident Ellie Nyambirai recalled the chaos:

“I spotted him running with a group shouting my name. I froze. It was surreal.”

Another eyewitness, Charles Ncube, described the dramatic moment of capture:

“We saw a lone man with a sack sprinting toward the bus stop. Plainclothes cops tackled him in seconds.”

After his recapture, crowds gathered at Chitungwiza Police Headquarters, applauding officers for restoring order and safety.

Police sources say Matsotsi’s criminal record spans years of armed robberies across Chitungwiza and Harare, solidifying his image as a hardened repeat offender. Criminologist Dr. Steven Gumbo of the University of Zimbabwe noted that such criminals often exploit judicial delays and under-resourced prisons, warning that without systemic reform, similar cases will recur.

“To deter sophisticated networks, courts must impose stiffer sentences and expedite trials,” he said.

Matsotsi, facing charges under CR250/10/25, appeared before Magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzai on October 15 and was remanded until October 21. Prosecutor Takudzwa Jambawu told the court that an undercover operation led to Matsotsi’s arrest at the Stoneridge interchange, where police recovered two sacks of stolen goods and a kitchen knife. Defense counsel has yet to submit a bail application. If convicted, Matsotsi could face up to 20 years in prison under Zimbabwe’s Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.

Authorities and analysts alike say the case exposes deep systemic flaws — including overcrowded detention facilities, parole loopholes, and weak community policing. Inspector Linda Moyo of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) pledged stronger patrols and improved engagement in Chitungwiza’s high-risk zones to prevent repeat offences.

Meanwhile, civil society groups such as the Zimbabwe Peace Project (ZPP) are calling for transparent court proceedings and public updates on sentencing reforms. Community leader Fungai Mandizvidza emphasised the need for genuine rehabilitation:

“We need clarity on rehabilitation measures. Prisons shouldn’t be revolving doors for criminals like Matsotsi.”

With Chitungwiza still on edge, all eyes now turn to the courts. The outcome of Matsotsi’s trial may not only determine his fate but also reflect Zimbabwe’s resolve to confront repeat offenders and strengthen public confidence in law enforcement.