Armed Robbery Suspects Arrested, Four Shot D£ad in Warren Park Shootout

Armed Robbery Suspects Arrested, Four Shot D£ad in Warren Park Shootout – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of two suspected armed robbers and the fatal shooting of four others following a dramatic shootout in Warren Park, Harare, on 30 March 2026.

In a statement released on 1 April 2026, police identified the arrested suspects as Nelson Chitima (28) and Edson Guvira (38).

Four other suspects — Mike Manyima (37), Office Chanakira (38), and two individuals identified only as Atenzi and Chris — were shot during an exchange of gunfire with detectives and later died upon admission at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals.

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According to the police, detectives from CID Homicide Harare initially arrested Chitima at his residence in Glenview 7 Extension following a tip-off linking him to a string of armed robbery cases in Harare dating back to February and March 2026. Upon arrest, Chitima implicated his accomplices, leading to the recovery of a Nissan NV350 vehicle used as a getaway car, along with a balaclava, gloves, and assorted liquor suspected to have been stolen.

Chitima reportedly assisted police in luring Guvira to Mhishi Shopping Centre. However, Guvira attempted to flee upon spotting detectives, prompting officers to fire warning shots. He was eventually shot in the leg and apprehended.

Further investigations led police to Warren Park 1 Shopping Centre, where the remaining suspects were reportedly planning another robbery. Detectives identified themselves and ordered the suspects to surrender, but the suspects allegedly opened fire, leading to a shootout. All four suspects were shot during the exchange.

A search of the suspects’ vehicle led to the recovery of firearms, including a .38 Rossi revolver, a pellet gun, and ammunition, as well as explosives, cellphones, and identification documents. Police also recovered three vehicles believed to have been used in the commission of the crimes.

The suspects are linked to several robbery incidents, including a break-in at Kuwadzana 2 Shopping Centre on 25 February 2026, where goods worth US$500 were stolen. In another case, the suspects allegedly attacked security guards in Aspindale and stole a firearm. On 25 March 2026, they reportedly robbed a liquor store in Glen Norah, making off with alcohol valued at nearly US$2,000.

Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi reiterated the ZRP’s commitment to combating armed robbery, warning that officers will respond decisively to violent criminal activities.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that there is no going back in the fight against armed robbery cases in the country. The police will decisively respond appropriately to any form of violent confrontation by armed robbery gangs,” he said.