The girlfriend of an armed robber linked to a recent spate of burglaries has been arrested after police found stolen goods in her possession. Monica Muguti, a resident of Chitungwiza, was reportedly gifted these items by her boyfriend, Tawanda Manokore, a suspected armed robber.
The items, connected to two separate robberies, were discovered at Muguti’s home following a tip-off. She has since been implicated in both crimes, intensifying the ongoing investigation into the robbery syndicate.
The stolen goods recovered from Muguti’s home included high-value items such as branded watches, jewelry, and other valuables taken during robberies in October and November. Police reported that Muguti led them to the stolen items hidden in her wardrobe.
The robberies occurred at Christon Bank and Goromonzi, where armed assailants attacked residents and made off with money, electronics, and firearms. These incidents highlight the increasing boldness and violence of the gang.
The first robbery, on October 26, targeted a residence on Christon Road, where assailants disguised as police officers subdued the victims. The gang took $760 in cash, six cell phones, a firearm, and other valuables. They fled in a stolen Toyota Rav 4, which was later abandoned.
Girlfriend Arrested for Possessing Stolen Goods Tied to Armed Robbery Syndicate
In the second robbery, on November 3, the criminals invaded a Goromonzi farm, stealing high-end electronics, $3,000 in cash, clothing, and firearms after restraining the occupants. Both incidents were captured on CCTV, aiding the police in identifying suspects.
Law enforcement has made progress in cracking the case, arresting suspects including Tafadzwa Chakuteka and Sarezi Shonhiwa. These arrests led to the recovery of stolen firearms and other items at Chakuteka’s residence.
Meanwhile, Muguti’s arrest reveals how stolen goods were used as gifts, inadvertently linking her to the crimes. The connection between the robbers and their associates is becoming clearer as the investigation unfolds.
Authorities continue to pursue the remaining suspects, emphasizing the importance of community tips in the investigation. The stolen items serve as critical evidence tying the suspects to the crimes, while CCTV footage further strengthens the case. The arrests and recoveries so far mark significant progress, but the police remain vigilant in dismantling the armed robbery syndicate and ensuring justice for the victims.
