"LONE RANGER" ARRESTED: Bulawayo Serial Robber Nabbed After Targeted Manhunt

BULAWAYO — The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of a 35-year-old serial armed robber, Nkosana Maketho, dubbed the "Lone Ranger," who is linked to at least eight counts of armed robbery across the city. Maketho's crime spree, which primarily targeted motorists and taxi operators, came to an end on May 9, 2026, following a coordinated effort between the public and the CID Homicide unit.

According to a statement issued by Detective Inspector Muteweri, Maketho utilized a consistent and deceptive tactic to lure his victims. Masquerading as a genuine commuter, he would request lifts or hire taxis before producing a firearm to rob the unsuspecting drivers.

The arrest was triggered by an incident along Wellington Road in Bellevue, where Maketho stopped a Honda Fit driver. After producing a weapon and seizing US$50, the suspect attempted to vanish into nearby darkness. However, the complainant quickly mobilized members of the public to search local maize fields while alerting the police.

Swift intervention by CID Homicide Bulawayo led to Maketho's capture and the recovery of a Blow F92, 9mm Calibre blank gun. Subsequent investigations have since linked him to seven other high-profile robberies, including:

• April 19, 2026: Robbing a kombi crew of their daily takings at the intersection of Nketa and Masiyephambili Drive.

• April 18, 2026: Targeting a taxi driver at Lobengula Street and 8th Avenue, followed by another robbery of a motorist later that same night.

Several stolen cellphones were recovered during the arrest. Maketho is expected to appear in court today, May 12, 2026.

The ZRP has used this breakthrough to issue a stern warning to Bulawayo residents. Motorists are strongly discouraged from offering lifts to strangers, as criminals frequently exploit these acts of kindness to find their next targets.

Nkosana Maketho Bulawayo armed robbery