US$4 Million Ecobank Heist: ZRP, SA Police Move to Extradite Vumbunu Brothers
US$4 Million Ecobank Heist: ZRP, SA Police Move to Extradite Vumbunu Brothers – The Zimbabwe Republic Police says it is now working “flat out” with South African authorities to extradite the alleged masterminds behind the US$4 million Ecobank heist, brothers Elijah and Abraham Temay Vumbunu.
ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi told journalists in Bulawayo that the arrest and extradition process must follow strict international procedures.
“You can’t just take anybody without following legal requirements,” Nyathi said.
“In South Africa, they must first appear before the courts before they can be remanded to Zimbabwe.”
One suspect, Bhekani Mlilo (40), has already been extradited from Botswana and remanded in custody until December 5.
Prosecutor Concilia Ncube revealed how the gang planned the robbery.
“They used a white Ford Ranger registered in the name of Nomsa Aneline Zingela. Before the robbery, they changed the South African number plate to a Zimbabwean one,” she said.
Nyathi confirmed the heist involved insiders.
“It is clear now — inside information was used. We are urging companies, especially financial institutions, to thoroughly vet their employees.”
He warned that staged robberies are increasing:
“Sometimes people plan robberies with relatives or friends. Companies must stop taking these issues for granted.”
