Three ZRP Officers Injured as Armed Robbers Steal Rifle, Patrol Car in Mabelreign Attack

HARARE – Three officers from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) were hospitalised after a violent ambush by suspected robbers who attacked them with metal crowbars before stealing a service rifle and patrol vehicle in Mabelreign early Friday morning. The dramatic incident occurred around 12:20 AM on 10 April 2026 along Northolt Road near Divaris Makaharis School, according to an internal police report seen by Southerton Business Times.

Inspector Magidi, Constable Nyamushamba, and Constable Chihanga were conducting a stationary patrol when three masked men suddenly emerged from the darkness.

“Suddenly, three male adults wearing black balaclavas appeared in front of the car armed with a claw bar and a high-powered torch,” reads part of the internal report.

The suspects reportedly advanced rapidly, catching the officers off guard.

The situation escalated when Inspector Magidi instructed Constable Chihanga to open fire, but the rifle reportedly jammed.

“Constable Chihanga tried to shoot through the open window, and the rifle jammed,” the report states.

The malfunction gave the attackers an advantage, allowing them to surround the vehicle and smash the windscreen with crowbars.

Constable Nyamushamba attempted to escape through the driver’s door but was struck on the shoulder during the struggle. Inspector Magidi was also injured while attempting to confront the attackers.

“He was struck on the forehead with a brick and fell down,” the report says.

Constable Chihanga fought back using the butt of the G3 rifle and briefly managed to exit the vehicle, but was overpowered and struck multiple times.

“The other criminal hit him with a claw bar on his head twice, and he fell down,” according to the report.

The suspects seized the G3 rifle and fled the scene using the police vehicle.

Stolen items include:

• G3 rifle (serial number 5567) with seven rounds

• White Nissan Tiida (registration ACS 1584)

• Samsung A15 cellphone

• Tecno 10 cellphone

The injured officers were rushed to Parirenyatwa Hospital, where authorities confirmed they are in stable condition.

“The three police officers injured were taken to Parirenyatwa Hospital, and their condition is stable,” the report noted.

Multiple police units, including CID Homicide, CID Marlborough, the Police Support Unit (PSTT), and the Mabelreign canine unit, attended the scene, which showed broken glass and limited lighting. Police have since launched a manhunt for the suspects, with priorities including:

• Arresting the attackers

• Recovering the stolen vehicle

• Recovering the G3 rifle

• Recovering stolen mobile phones

Security expert Blessing Muchengeti said the attack highlights growing concerns over organised criminal activity.

“Targeting armed police officers and successfully disarming them suggests a high level of coordination and boldness. Recovering the firearm quickly is critical for public safety,” he said.

The brazen nature of the attack has raised alarm among residents, particularly given its location in a residential suburb. Authorities say investigations are ongoing, and anyone with information is urged to report to the nearest police station.

ZRP officers attacked Harare