Police arrest suspected serial armed robber linked to 31 Harare cases
- Southerton Business Times
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Meta Description: Zimbabwe Republic Police have arrested a 31-year-old man suspected of committing 31 armed robberies in Budiriro and Glen View and are appealing for more victims to come forward.
By Staff Reporter | Southerton Business Times
HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested a 31-year-old man suspected of carrying out a string of armed robberies that allegedly terrorised residents of Budiriro and Glen View in Harare.
Police identified the suspect as Melusi Pilile, whose arrest was confirmed by ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi in a statement to ZTN Prime on Friday. According to police, investigators have so far linked Pilile to 31 armed robbery cases, with investigations still underway.
"So far, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has identified thirty-one cases of armed robbery where the suspect was involved," Nyathi said.
Police are now appealing to members of the public, particularly victims of robberies in Harare, to assist with the ongoing investigation by identifying the suspect and providing any information that could strengthen the cases against him.
"We want to appeal to the public, especially in Harare, to come forward and assist the Zimbabwe Republic Police, one, by identifying and linking the suspect to these offences and also to assist in the current identification process which is being conducted by the Zimbabwe Republic Police," Nyathi said.
Commissioner Nyathi also urged Zimbabweans to remain vigilant and avoid walking through secluded areas, particularly after dark, to reduce the risk of becoming victims of crime.
"We wanted to urge Zimbabweans to avoid walking through secluded places. Let us avoid walking through isolated places, particularly at night. In the process, we'll have people being mugged or being attacked," he said.
The arrest comes as police continue to intensify operations targeting violent crime in Harare and other urban centres. Authorities have encouraged anyone who may have been a victim of the suspect or who has information relevant to the investigation to report to the nearest police station. Pilile is expected to appear in court to face armed robbery charges. Under Zimbabwean law, he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Melusi Pilile arrested