Daylight Robbery: Man Loses USD450 To Bogus Cops In Harare CBD

Zimbabwean News You Can Trust

In a shocking and disturbing incident, eight men disguised as police officers allegedly robbed Godden Ncube of USD 450 in broad daylight last Thursday at the corner of Mbuya Nehanda and Bank Street in Harare’s Central Business District (CBD).

According to a report made to the police on February 6, the victim was walking along Mbuya Nehanda Street when he was approached by eight bogus cops upon reaching Bank Street. They informed him that he had dropped a significant amount of money and that he was under arrest.

The bogus officers handcuffed the victim, charging him with traveling with large amounts of money. Two of the officers allegedly produced Okapi knives, threatening to stab the victim if he refused to comply.

The fake cops reportedly searched the victim’s pockets, stole USD 450 and 50 rands, then removed the handcuffs and disappeared, leaving Ncube stranded on the streets of Harare. Upon realizing he had been robbed, Ncube made a report at the Market Square police base.

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Harare provincial spokesperson, Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the incident and stated that investigations are underway.

“On February 6, 2025, around 5:45 AM, the complainant was walking along Mbuya Nehanda Street. Upon approaching Bank Street, he was approached by the accused persons who claimed that he had dropped a large amount of money. They informed him that he was under arrest for possessing a large amount of money before handcuffing him.

“Two of the accused produced Okapi knives and threatened him with death. They searched him and stole a wallet containing USD 450 and R50. They then removed the handcuffs before fleeing. The complainant reported the incident at the Market Square police base. The scene was attended to, but no arrests or recoveries have been made. The total value stolen is USD 450 and R50. Investigations are ongoing,” said Inspector Chakanza.