A gang of five armed robbers has shocked the court by naming high-ranking government officials and police officers as their associates during a trial in Bulawayo. The suspects, who allegedly posed as military intelligence and police officers, are accused of extorting money from mining companies in the Matabeleland region by using the names of prominent figures, including members of the First Family.
Three of the suspects—Munyaradzi Charakupa, Victor Jaja, and Tawanda Mangi—appeared before Magistrate Evelyn Madzikatire facing serious charges of impersonating public officials, attempted extortion, and extortion. Represented by lawyer Bryan Sengweni, the trio has been remanded in custody until their next court appearance.
Investigating officer Superintendent Edmore Runganga expressed concerns about the suspects potentially fleeing, particularly as some of their alleged accomplices remain at large. He also warned that granting bail could lead to witness tampering, given the involvement of individuals within law enforcement and government sectors.