Mandara Family Traumatised After Six Armed Robbers Storm Home in Violent Midnight Raid

HARARE – A family of five was left traumatised after six armed robbers allegedly stormed their home in Mandara during the early hours of Saturday, assaulting the occupants before escaping with laptops, electronic gadgets, groceries, and other valuables. The violent home invasion occurred shortly after 2 am, turning what had been a peaceful night into a terrifying ordeal that lasted about 30 minutes.

According to the victim, Dr Edzai Kachirekwa, the gang forced their way into the house before tying up family members and demanding cash.

"The gang, comprising six men, forced entry through the lounge, tied us up and assaulted us with machetes whilst demanding cash. They ransacked the house looking for cash as they escaped with groceries, electronics and some of our valuables," Dr Kachirekwa said.

The suspects reportedly searched every room in the house before fleeing with laptops, electronic devices, groceries, and other household valuables.

After the robbers fled, Dr Kachirekwa managed to free himself in a desperate bid to seek assistance.

"I managed to untie myself and went to the bathroom, where I climbed to the ceiling and hoisted myself onto the roof before alerting a neighbour, who managed to call the police," he said.

Neighbours responded to the distress call while police officers were dispatched to the scene.

No fatalities were reported, although the family was left shaken by the traumatic experience.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the armed robbery and said investigations are underway to identify and arrest the suspects. National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged members of the public to remain vigilant and take precautions to reduce the risk of becoming targets of armed robbery.

"As the Zimbabwe Republic Police, we are aware of the issue, and investigations are currently underway. We appeal to members of the public not to keep large sums of money at home, and also be cautious when discussing and disclosing financial statuses. To anyone with information on these criminals must come through," Nyathi said.

Police have since intensified patrols in residential suburbs as part of efforts to curb a rise in armed robbery cases targeting homes in Harare.

Authorities are appealing to anyone with information that could assist investigations to report it to the nearest police station or contact the Zimbabwe Republic Police through its established reporting channels. The latest incident adds to growing concerns over violent home invasions in Harare, with police urging residents to strengthen home security measures and promptly report suspicious activities in their neighbourhoods.

Mandara armed robbery