Tynwald Primary School A day after armed robbers allegedly set fire to an elderly woman’s house in Greencroft, another armed gang targeted Tynwald Primary School during a violent raid in Tynwald on Wednesday. According to police, three robbers overpowered security guards at the school before breaking into offices, opening safes, and stealing valuables, including the school’s vehicle Police said the suspects attacked three security guards during the raid. One of the robbers allegedly carried a firearm, while the other two were reportedly armed with a machete and a garden pick. During the robbery, the gang allegedly stole a Samsung Galaxy M13 and a Samsung Galaxy M14 from one security guard, while another guard lost a Huawei Y9 mobile phone. Authorities said the third guard managed to keep his phone and later contacted police, triggering a response. The robbers also drove away in the school’s Toyota Quantum before abandoning it later. Police have since recovered both the vehicle and the stolen mobile phones. Luckmore Chakanza, spokesperson for Harare provincial police, confirmed the incident and said all stolen property had been recovered. “Police recovered a vehicle and some valuables when armed robbers pounced at a school in Tynwald. The total value stolen is US$13,300, and all was recovered,” Insp Chakanza said. Residents in the area believe the suspects may have deliberately targeted the school because the robbery coincided with the beginning of the second school term, when criminals often assume schools may be holding large amounts of cash from fee payments. The latest incident adds to growing concerns over armed robberies and violent crime in parts of Harare, where criminals have increasingly targeted homes, businesses, and institutions. Tynwald Primary School robbery

Only 52 out of Zimbabwe’s 170 constituencies that received Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocations in 2025 have submitted reports explaining how the money was used, raising growing concerns over accountability and transparency in the handling of public funds. Jacob Mudenda revealed the figures in the National Assembly on Thursday, expressing concern that the majority of Members of Parliament had failed to comply despite repeated reminders from Parliament. “Following the announcement made on 18 February 2026, reminding Hon. Members of the requirements to submit Constituency Development Fund (CDF) acquittals, I noted with concern that only 52 out of the 170 constituencies that accessed funding in 2025 have submitted their acquittals,” Mudenda said. According to Parliament, this means 118 constituencies are yet to account for the use of CDF allocations received last year. Mudenda warned that all outstanding acquittals must now be submitted before the end of May. “The Hon. Members who have not submitted their acquittals should do so without exception by 29 May 2026 in terms of Article 14 of the CDF Constitution,” he added. The Constituency Development Fund was introduced in 2010 before later being formalised under the 2022 CDF Act. The programme was designed to decentralise development funding by allowing communities, through their elected MPs, to identify and prioritise local infrastructure and development projects. Under the scheme, each constituency receives approximately US$50,000, or its equivalent in Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), to finance projects such as classroom blocks, clinics, boreholes, bridges, roads and other community infrastructure. However, the low rate of compliance has triggered renewed debate around transparency, monitoring and oversight mechanisms within the fund. Critics have previously questioned whether some constituencies fully disclose how CDF resources are spent, particularly in rural areas where monitoring systems are often weak. The issue has also exposed disparities in fund disbursement itself, with some legislators reportedly claiming they have not yet received any allocations despite Parliament demanding acquittal reports from recipients. The latest revelations are likely to intensify scrutiny over the management of public resources at the constituency level as Parliament pushes for stricter compliance ahead of future disbursements. CDF Zimbabwe

A Harare man accused of stealing more than $69 million from NMB Bank after the money was mistakenly deposited into his account has been acquitted by the courts. Itai Mazambani was cleared of theft and money laundering charges after a regional court criticised investigators, prosecutors and bank officials for presenting what the magistrate described as weak and poorly assembled evidence. Mazambani, who was represented by lawyer Admire Rubaya, had pleaded not guilty before Chief Magistrate Vongai Guwuriro. The State alleged that between 8 and 10 February 2022, Mazambani unlawfully benefited from $69,006,224.03 that had allegedly been mistakenly deposited into his NMB Bank account. Prosecutors further claimed he transferred the funds into several personal and corporate accounts before exchanging the money for United States dollars on the black market. However, Mazambani denied controlling the account during the period in question and argued that he had no involvement in the alleged transactions. His defence team instead blamed internal failures within the bank, pointing to alleged manipulation of the account by bank staff. According to the defence, an NMB employee identified as Lyn Charlie allegedly made the initial error, which was later overlooked by a superior identified only as Ndhlumbi. Rubaya argued that the prosecution had failed to produce reliable and properly authenticated evidence linking his client to the transactions. “The alleged error was noticed five days later, an indication that the bank lacked strong internal systems. The bank statements relied on lacked certification,” Rubaya told the court. In delivering judgment, Magistrate Guwuriro criticised the manner in which the case had been investigated and prosecuted. “The State dumped everything and now wants the court to fix all the loopholes and convict the accused,” she said The court also heard testimony from two money changers who claimed they had exchanged United States dollars with Mazambani. However, the magistrate noted that prosecutors failed to support the allegations with additional evidence such as visitor logs, CCTV footage or independent verification. “They claimed they visited the accused to give him the US dollars, but the State was challenged to provide evidence, such as a gate book or CCTV, but there was none,” the court heard. The prosecution further alleged that part of the disputed money had been used to pay school fees for Mazambani’s children. But the magistrate again questioned the lack of supporting documentation. “Surely nothing stopped them from getting the birth certificates of the pupils whose fees were paid, just to establish the full story,” Guwuriro said. She concluded that the investigation and prosecution had been poorly handled. “The State was a bit untidy in terms of gathering evidence in this case,” she ruled. The acquittal is likely to reignite debate around banking controls, internal compliance systems and the handling of complex financial crime investigations in Zimbabwe. NMB Bank Zimbabwe

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) says its specialised K9 Unit has intercepted 15.45 kilograms of dagga valued at approximately US$15,450 during an anti-smuggling operation at Beitbridge Border Post. According to ZIMRA, the drugs were discovered on 13 May 2026 during a routine inspection at the country’s busiest border crossing linking Zimbabwe and South Africa. Authorities said the dagga had been carefully concealed inside food packaging and wrapped goods in an attempt to evade detection by border officials. In a statement issued on Friday, ZIMRA said the seizure demonstrated the effectiveness of its border surveillance systems and the growing role of the K9 Unit in combating smuggling and illegal trade activities. “This operation highlights ZIMRA’s continued commitment to safeguarding communities, fighting smuggling and protecting the economy through strong border controls, intelligence-led operations and effective inspection systems,” the authority said. The revenue authority warned that smuggling prohibited or illegal goods remains a serious criminal offence and said enforcement teams continue to intensify inspections at ports of entry across the country. “ZIMRA teams remain alert and ready to detect concealed contraband at all ports of entry,” the statement added. Beitbridge Border Post is regarded as Zimbabwe’s busiest inland port of entry and a major regional trade corridor handling thousands of travellers and commercial vehicles between southern African countries each day. The border post has frequently been targeted by smugglers attempting to move undeclared goods, drugs, and contraband across borders, prompting authorities to strengthen surveillance systems and deploy specialised anti-smuggling teams, including trained sniffer dogs. ZIMRA K9 Unit

Yoko T Veteran Midlands-born Afro-fusion musician Yoko T has made an emotional return to the Zimbabwean music scene with a brand-new gospel-inspired single titled Riripo Tsime, a heartfelt ballad centred on faith, gratitude, and remembrance. The new track, produced by celebrated producer G Fingers, also features respected Zimbabwean singer Alexio Kawara in the accompanying official music video. The song blends gospel influences with Afro-fusion sounds, showcasing Yoko T’s mature artistry and emotional depth. Speaking about the inspiration behind the song, Yoko T revealed that Riripo Tsime is deeply personal. “This is a hymn my late father’s favourite, so whenever I hear it I am reminded of him, may his soul rest in peace. However, I did a version in my own way on my new tune. The song talks about thanking Jesus for His blood that cleanses our sins,” he said. The musician explained that although he has spent time away from the spotlight focusing on other commitments, music continues to call him back. “I have been around working on other things, but the love for music cannot give me rest, so I am still in the game. Just hoping to keep working on more songs if God allows, and some collaborations with other artists,” he added. For many Zimbabwean music lovers, Yoko T’s return is more than just another release. It is the re-emergence of one of the Midlands’ overlooked but highly gifted pioneers of the urban grooves era. If Gweru were ever to establish a music hall of fame, Yoko T would deserve a reserved place among the city’s musical trailblazers. Long before Afro-fusion became fashionable and before social media created overnight stars, Yoko T was already experimenting with contemporary Zimbabwean urban sounds rooted in authentic storytelling and melody. Yoko T Unlike many artists who stumble into fame through trends or viral moments, Yoko T belongs to a generation of musicians whose talent often exceeded the opportunities available to them. He represents the type of artist Zimbabweans frequently look back on and ask: “How did we miss this one?” Reflecting on his musical journey, Yoko T recalled some of the projects that shaped his early career. “In 2004 we did a song called Consider My Feelings. I was the lead vocalist and the group was called Romeo,” he said. He also worked with the group Souls of Africa Zimbabwe, contributing to the song Madam Chamunoda alongside Madiz around 2007. “I have always loved gospel music, so I did this one,” he explained. Beyond music, Yoko T says his faith remains central to his life and creative direction. He is currently worshipping at Chosen Generation Fellowship in Bulawayo, Nkeka 8 Branch, under the leadership of Bishop TK Phiri. The release of Riripo Tsime comes at a time when Zimbabwe’s gospel and inspirational music scene continues to attract growing audiences searching for spiritually uplifting content blended with contemporary African sounds. With G Fingers’ polished production and Yoko T’s signature vocals and heartfelt storytelling, the single positions itself as both a tribute to family legacy and a declaration that the veteran musician still has more to offer Zimbabwean music. Yoko T

Masunda and his wife, Beauty Shoperai, and their child A Zimbabwean family is mourning the devastating loss of three relatives following a horrific chain of road accidents near Bela-Bela in South Africa that claimed the lives of a father, mother, and child within minutes. South African authorities said the tragedy unfolded on Saturday along the busy N1 highway and involved two separate collisions, including one linked to the security detail of South African Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi. According to police, Zimbabwean national Paul Masunda was allegedly struck and killed by a vehicle driven by an off-duty member of the South African Police Service (SAPS). Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said Masunda had just accompanied his wife, Beauty Shoperai, and their children to a bus station before attempting to cross the highway. The couple’s 14-year-old child reportedly witnessed the collision and immediately alerted the mother, who rushed back toward the scene carrying another young child strapped to her back. Moments later, tragedy struck again. Authorities said a second vehicle, allegedly belonging to Minister Motsoaledi’s Protection Security Services detail, struck Shoperai and the child. Police confirmed that a member of the minister’s Protection Security Services unit was driving at the time of the accident. Both the mother and the young child died at the scene. The surviving teenager is now reportedly dealing with the trauma of witnessing both parents and a sibling die within a short space of time. Mathe said Minister Motsoaledi, his close protection officer, and the driver involved in the second crash remained at the scene after the accident until emergency personnel and police arrived. South African police have since opened two separate culpable homicide investigations as authorities continue probing the circumstances surrounding the fatal incidents. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through relatives and members of the Zimbabwean community both in South Africa and back home in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwean family killed South Africa

Simba Makahamadze HARARE — Escalating tensions in the Middle East and rising global freight costs are reshaping international supply chains while simultaneously creating fresh agricultural export opportunities for Zimbabwe in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), one of the world’s most import-dependent food markets. The Zimbabwean Business Council UAE (ZIBCO) says Zimbabwean farmers, horticulture exporters, and agro-processing businesses are well-positioned to expand food exports into the UAE as the Gulf nation intensifies efforts to strengthen food security amid growing regional instability. Speaking during a briefing following ZIBCO’s 4th Annual General Meeting in Dubai, council chairperson Simba Makahamadze said the geopolitical crisis in the Middle East had exposed the UAE’s heavy dependence on imported food supplies. “More than 90 percent of food in the UAE is imported,” Makahamadze said during an interview with ZiFM Stereo News. “If we look at the strategic aspects of Dubai in particular, the D33 strategy, what you realize is that food security is one of the key pillars. It is an opportunity that we can tap into Zimbabwe.” His remarks come as tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the broader Gulf region continue affecting logistics, shipping routes, and global supply chains, leading to increased insurance premiums and transportation costs. According to Reuters, Zimbabwean horticulture exporters are now paying about US$3.80 per kilogram to export products to European markets, up from between US$2 and US$2.20 last year due to rising fuel and freight costs linked to the regional conflict. Makahamadze said the disruptions were already affecting cargo movement into the Gulf region. “The reality is that it has disrupted logistics. It has resulted in high insurance premiums. So, the movement of goods has not been easy,” he said. “But if we look at it from a Zimbabwean point of view, and from an agriculture point of view, this is an opportunity.” Trade relations between Zimbabwe and the UAE have expanded rapidly in recent years, with bilateral trade increasing from approximately US$901.7 million in 2019 to more than US$2.3 billion in 2023. Zimbabwe’s exports to the UAE rose from US$2 billion in 2021 to US$2.7 billion in 2022 before slightly declining to US$2.3 billion in 2023. Imports from the UAE fell to about US$268.6 million during the same period. Makahamadze said the UAE had now emerged as Zimbabwe’s leading export destination. “From the statistics that we have, as of last year, we had the UAE becoming the biggest trading partner for Zimbabwe in terms of exports, with an amount of about US$4.1 billion,” he said. “The bigger part, about US$1.9 billion, is being contributed by the mining industry. We also have a contribution from the agriculture industry as well.” “So if we are to then look at the trajectory of that trade between the two countries, it’s actually going higher.” The UAE has become a major destination for Zimbabwean gold, minerals, horticultural products, and agricultural commodities, while Dubai continues strengthening its role as a global logistics, trade, and investment hub linking Africa, Asia, and Europe. Zimbabwe is also courting investments worth between US$10 million and US$200 million in sectors including mining, renewable energy, manufacturing, agriculture, and energy generation as economic ties with the UAE deepen. Makahamadze said several investment negotiations facilitated by ZIBCO were now at advanced stages. “We have investment conversations that we facilitated for the mining industry, renewable energy industry, manufacturing, energy generation, and agriculture,” he said. “So, we are looking at ticket sizes of between US$10 million and US$200 million, and we have about five of those conversations still ongoing.” He revealed that one proposed investment transaction had already progressed to the signing of a term sheet, reflecting growing investor confidence in Zimbabwe’s economic prospects. Established under the regulatory framework of Dubai Chambers, ZIBCO represents Zimbabwean-owned businesses and professionals operating in the UAE while facilitating investment flows, market access, and trade partnerships between the two countries. “Our mandate is dual,” Makahamadze said. “We look at the outbound side of things, where we are driving capital into Zimbabwe from the UAE, and we also look at the inbound side of things, where we are helping businesses that are coming to set up in the UAE.” The organisation recently hosted an exporters’ indaba in partnership with ZB Bank and Dubai Chambers, involving more than 30 Zimbabwean exporters. “The core of that indaba was to ensure that we help and facilitate the movement of goods, besides exporting and cargo movement as well, into the UAE,” Makahamadze said. ZIBCO also confirmed that Dubai-based logistics and retail operator DP World had secured licensing approvals to establish duty-free retail operations at Zimbabwean airports. “We are going to see employment creation at the airports and, beyond contribution to trade, the key issue is the employment of locals,” Makahamadze said. He added that Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector remained strategically positioned to benefit from the UAE’s growing demand for imported food products and diversified supply chains. Zimbabwe UAE trade Simba Makahamadze

Zimbabwe may have exported one of its greatest national resources without fully realising it. Across South Africa, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Botswana, the United States, and beyond, millions of Zimbabweans are building careers, businesses, and professional reputations in some of the world’s most competitive environments. They are nurses in the NHS, engineers in Johannesburg, lecturers in American universities, entrepreneurs in Perth, software developers in Cape Town, and creatives shaping global conversations online. Yet back home in Zimbabwe, the national conversation about the Diaspora still largely revolves around two things, remittances and sport. Every festive season, headlines celebrate the billions being sent home by Zimbabweans abroad through diaspora remittances. Every international tournament sparks excitement when a foreign-based player commits to the Warriors, the Sables, or another national team. Both matter. Both deserve recognition. But they represent only a fraction of what the Zimbabwean Diaspora can offer to national economic development and investment growth. Zimbabwe’s global community is one of the country’s most underutilised strategic assets. Beyond the money transfers that sustain households and the athletes who strengthen national teams lies something far more valuable, skills, professional networks, innovation, influence, entrepreneurship, and global connectivity. For years, diaspora remittances have acted as a quiet economic lifeline for countless Zimbabwean families. School fees, groceries, medical bills, rentals, and rural development projects are often financed by relatives working abroad. Entire communities survive because someone left the country in search of better economic opportunities. That reality should concern policymakers as much as it inspires gratitude. Remittances are important, but they are ultimately survival capital, not a sustainable long-term economic development strategy. The greater opportunity lies in transforming the Diaspora into a structured development partner capable of transferring knowledge, attracting foreign direct investment, opening international markets, and strengthening institutions in Zimbabwe. Other countries recognised this long ago. India transformed its diaspora into a global technology and investment network. Ireland leveraged its global population to strengthen tourism, trade, and international business partnerships. Rwanda aggressively engages its diaspora through targeted development initiatives and investment programmes. Zimbabwe, by comparison, still approaches Diaspora engagement in fragmented and often symbolic ways. There are conferences, speeches, and investment appeals, but many Zimbabweans abroad continue to complain about bureaucracy, policy inconsistency, and lack of institutional trust. Some say they are encouraged emotionally to invest back home, only to encounter practical obstacles the moment they attempt to do business locally or launch investment projects. Others feel acknowledged mainly when foreign currency inflows are needed or when national pride is attached to sporting success. The sports example perfectly captures both the potential and the limitations of Zimbabwe’s current approach to diaspora engagement. When a footballer developed in England or a rugby player based in South Africa commits to Zimbabwe, the nation celebrates loudly. Social media erupts with patriotic excitement. Sports administrators praise Diaspora's commitment to the national flag. Yet far less attention is given to Zimbabwean scientists involved in global medical research, technology experts working in international firms, academics leading major studies abroad, or entrepreneurs building scalable businesses outside the country. Sport has become the most visible form of Diaspora engagement because it is emotionally powerful and politically uncomplicated. But national development, innovation, and economic transformation demand broader thinking. The modern global economy is increasingly driven by knowledge, innovation, technology, and international networks. Zimbabwe already has citizens embedded within advanced industries and institutions across the world. Properly organised, that global network could become one of the country’s greatest competitive advantages. Imagine coordinated partnerships between Diaspora medical professionals and local hospitals in Zimbabwe. Imagine Zimbabwean software engineers abroad mentoring local startups or investing in emerging technology hubs. Imagine universities building structured exchange programmes with Zimbabwean academics teaching overseas. These are not unrealistic ambitions. They are opportunities already being exploited elsewhere through strategic diaspora investment policies. The Diaspora also carries significant soft power. In many countries, Zimbabweans act as unofficial ambassadors through business, academia, culture, media, sport, and everyday interaction. Their professionalism and success shape how Zimbabwe itself is perceived internationally. There is also the growing challenge of generational disconnection. Many second-generation Zimbabweans born abroad are gradually losing direct cultural and institutional ties to the country. Without deliberate programmes centred around heritage tourism, cultural exchange, youth engagement, and sport, Zimbabwe risks losing future generations that could have strengthened global links for decades. Of course, responsibility does not rest with the government alone. The Diaspora itself is diverse, politically divided, and shaped by different experiences and expectations. Some Zimbabweans abroad remain deeply invested in national affairs, while others have emotionally detached from home after years of frustration and economic instability. Still, no serious nation ignores millions of skilled citizens and descendants spread across major global economies. The conversation around Zimbabwe’s Diaspora must now evolve beyond remittance statistics and national team call-ups. Those contributions matter, but they should be the starting point — not the full story of diaspora development. A nation that only remembers its Diaspora when the economy is struggling or when a striker scores for the Warriors risks confusing survival support with genuine national economic development and nation-building. The two are not the same. Simbarashe Namusi is a peace, leadership, governance, and media scholar writing in his personal capacity. Zimbabwe Diaspora

Young musicians across Zimbabwe have been invited to enter the 2026 edition of the Imagine Music Xperience (IMX), an international youth music competition that gives emerging artists the chance to perform on a global stage in Europe. Organised locally by Music Crossroads Academy Zimbabwe, the competition is open to solo artists, duets, and groups aged between 13 and 21 years old. The all-styles competition welcomes performers from every genre, including hip-hop, Afro-fusion, jazz, traditional music, rock, gospel, electronic, classical, and pop. Unlike conventional talent shows, IMX focuses on youth development, mentorship, and professional music training. Participants benefit from workshops, jam sessions, and industry feedback designed to help young artists build sustainable careers in music. Applications for the 2026 Zimbabwe national competition close on 16 May 2026. Interested artists are required to submit a three-minute performance video through the official registration portal: IMX Zimbabwe Registration Portal Selected participants will attend a two-day bootcamp scheduled for 22–23 May 2026 ahead of the national finals on 30 May 2026. Organisers said the bootcamp will equip finalists with performance, collaboration, and stage presentation skills before the final showcase. The Zimbabwe national winner will represent the country at the international IMX finals in Brussels, Belgium. According to organisers, travel costs for the winning act will be covered by the sending organisation, while accommodation and local expenses in Europe will be handled by the international hosts. Registration for the competition is free, although selected bootcamp participants will contribute US$20 towards meals, facilitation, and materials. Limited scholarships are expected to be available for participants unable to afford the fee. Zimbabwe already has a strong track record in international competition. In December 2024, Zimbabwean afro-traditional outfit UKAMA Band won the IMX International Final in Belgium after outperforming 27 musicians from 10 countries. The group, formed at Churchill Boys High School, impressed audiences with performances blending Shona storytelling, traditional rhythms, and contemporary sounds. Their victory earned them €1,500 in prize money and professional music coaching opportunities. The band members Kundai Mudepu, Nyasha Gurira, Nokutenda Kutirai, and Takudzwa Mudepu are currently studying music and sound engineering on scholarship at Music Crossroads Academy Zimbabwe. Organisers say the competition continues to position Zimbabwean youth talent on the international stage while promoting cultural exchange and creative development. For enquiries, aspiring participants can contact Music Crossroads Academy Zimbabwe via email at academyzim@music-crossroads.net. Imagine Music Xperience Zimbabwe 2026

HARARE — In a significant departure from traditional official protocol, President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his entire Cabinet have committed to wearing Zimbabwe’s National Fabric throughout May. The move, which officially commenced during yesterday’s Cabinet sitting in Harare, marks the beginning of Culture Month, an annual observance aimed at fostering national pride and indigenous identity. Instead of the standard Western-style suits and ties, ministers appeared in vibrant, locally designed attire. Government officials stated that this shift reflects a strategic push to reinforce indigenous values and unity through visible cultural expression during official state business. The initiative is designed to achieve several key objectives: Heritage Preservation: Reaffirming the administration's commitment to Zimbabwean history and values. Economic Support: Boosting the local textile industry and supporting home-grown creativity. National Unity: Strengthening a shared identity through symbols inspired by the national flag and African heritage. Coordinated by the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, this year’s celebrations extend beyond fashion. Acting Sports Minister Paul Mavima described Culture Month as a platform for skills development, innovation, and youth empowerment within the arts sector. Activities scheduled throughout May include: Culinary & Language: Showcases of traditional food and initiatives for language preservation. Performance Arts: Traditional dance, music festivals, and poetry events. Exhibitions: Cultural and visual arts displays intended to facilitate intergenerational knowledge transfer. The month-long programme aligns with the broader continental cultural calendar: May 21: President Mnangagwa will preside over the main Culture Month commemorations in Bulawayo. May 25: National activities will culminate in the celebration of Africa Day. Introduced in recent years, the National Fabric serves as a canvas for Zimbabwe’s aspirations, utilizing colors and motifs that mirror the national flag. The government maintains that the continued use of the fabric in official settings is essential for promoting locally produced goods and services while solidifying a unique Zimbabwean brand on the global stage. With the Cabinet leading by example, do you think the National Fabric should be officially adopted as the mandatory dress code for all civil servants during Culture Month? Zimbabwe National Fabric Culture Month 2026

Bulawayo Road robbery attempt Motorists are raising alarm over suspected criminal ambush attempts along major highways after two separate drivers reported dangerous incidents involving objects being thrown at moving vehicles during the night. One driver recounted a frightening experience along Bulawayo Road near Whitehouse shortly after midnight while travelling alone from Redcliff. According to the motorist, the incident occurred at around 12:50 a.m. near Meru Service Station as he approached Whitehouse. The driver said he noticed four suspicious men positioned on both sides of the road, all allegedly dressed in dark clothing. “Suddenly, one of them threw an object at my car. It sounded like a tyre burst coming from behind,” the motorist said. Although shocked, he chose not to stop and instead slowed down slightly while assessing the situation. The driver said he then noticed two of the men running towards his vehicle while another pair appeared to deliberately walk slowly across the road ahead, seemingly attempting to force him to reduce speed further. “I became more alert and hooted at them, but they did not move,” he said. According to the motorist, another object was then thrown beneath the vehicle, causing unusual noises from the car. Moments later, a third object reportedly struck the rear spare wheel instead of smashing through the rear window. “At that point, I realised this could be an attempted robbery or attack,” he said. The driver said he eventually pulled over at what he believed was a safer location, but several men allegedly ran towards the vehicle. He responded by firing warning shots into the air, causing the suspects to flee. The motorist later discovered only minor damage underneath the front bumper. In a separate incident believed to have occurred near Jamaica Inn, another driver reported that an unidentified object smashed into the windscreen of their vehicle at around 7:20 p.m. The victim said they did not stop at the scene and instead drove directly to a nearby tollgate to report the matter. The driver praised two police officers, Constables Basvi and Zikali, for their quick response. “They immediately contacted the Melfort Police Base so that the area could be patrolled right away,” the motorist said. The incidents have heightened concerns over possible highway robbery tactics in isolated areas during late-night hours. Criminal gangs operating along highways are known in some cases to use stones, spikes, or other objects to force motorists to stop before robbing them. Motorists are being urged to remain vigilant, avoid stopping in isolated areas after suspicious impacts or road obstructions, and immediately report incidents to the nearest police station or tollgate. Bulawayo Road robbery attempt

Keith Mpame. A growing number of Zimbabweans are coming forward with allegations against Pinways Direct, a vehicle parts and engine supply business reportedly linked to businessman Keith Mpame, after customers allegedly lost thousands of United States dollars in undelivered engine import deals. One complainant says he paid US$1,950 for an engine in March 2025 after being promised delivery within 45 days from Dubai to Harare. More than a year later, the engine has still not been delivered. According to the victim, Pinways Direct was at the time operating from Belvedere in Harare and communicated with customers primarily through WhatsApp groups and Dubai-based phone numbers. “I would like to thank you for exposing fraudulent companies and individuals who are robbing people of their hard-earned money,” the complainant said. “After I made the initial payment, I was told that the engine would take about 45 days to arrive from Dubai to Harare. Up to today, since March 2025, it has never been delivered.” The complainant alleges that after payments were made, communication from the company stopped entirely. “Their contact numbers were later changed from Dubai numbers to NetOne numbers, and since then they no longer respond to messages. I was also removed from their WhatsApp group,” he said. The victim further claimed that the alleged scam may involve multiple WhatsApp groups used to attract customers searching for imported engines and vehicle parts. “These people seem to be running a scam using different WhatsApp groups. They add customers, answer enquiries, give prices, and once payment is made, communication stops completely,” he alleged. In response, affected customers have reportedly formed a WhatsApp support group to coordinate efforts to recover their money and share information. “At the moment, we are about 67 victims in the WhatsApp group,” the complainant said. He also urged other alleged victims to come forward and report the matter to the police. “We encourage everyone who was scammed to report the matter to the police and obtain a case number. This will help us submit a formal request for an official police statement and assist in efforts to bring Keith Mpame to justice.” The complainant further alleged that investigations by the CID Commercial Crimes Division have made little progress. “Investigations at the CID CCD department have stalled, and since last year nothing meaningful has happened,” he claimed. No official response from Pinways Direct or Keith Mpame had been issued at the time of publication, and police had not publicly commented on the allegations. Authorities have repeatedly warned Zimbabweans to exercise caution when making payments for imported vehicles, engines, or vehicle parts through social media platforms and WhatsApp groups, especially where businesses demand upfront payment without verifiable delivery records. Pinways Direct scam