Two serving Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officers based in Inyathi have been named among ten suspects arrested in connection with a high-profile armed robbery targeting mine workers transporting gold-processing material.
According to police details, the officers are Assistant Inspector Tafirenyika Mafuruse, stationed at ZRP Siganda Post, and Constable Privilege Gift Dliwayo, based at ZRP Inyathi.
The pair are alleged to have played key roles in the April 4, 2026 robbery along the Inyathi–Gloag gravel road, where five Chinese nationals working at River Bank 22 Mine were ambushed by armed suspects.
Investigations by CID Homicide Bulawayo indicate that Constable Dliwayo was allegedly part of the gang that carried out the attack and is accused of supplying camouflage clothing used to disguise the suspects.
He is also alleged to have been in possession of a firearm during the robbery, which was discharged to disable the victims’ escort vehicle.
Assistant Inspector Mafuruse is accused of providing the firearm used in the commission of the offence.
Detectives recovered an FN rifle serial number ZRP 13654, without a dust cover, along with a magazine loaded with seven rounds of ammunition, during a search at his residence.
The firearm is reportedly linked to Siganda Police Post.
In addition, a search at Constable Dliwayo’s quarters led to the recovery of two spent 7.62mm cartridges, believed to have been discharged during the robbery, as well as three live 7.62mm rounds that had not been used.
Investigators say this ballistic evidence is crucial in linking the suspects to the shooting reported at the crime scene.
Authorities further revealed that Constable Dliwayo was already under suspension since July 2025 over a separate criminal case involving theft of gold ore exhibits.
The arrest of the two officers has intensified scrutiny on possible internal collusion within law enforcement structures, particularly in cases linked to the mining sector.
All ten suspects remain in custody at Bulawayo Central Police Station and are expected to appear in court soon.
Investigations are ongoing, with police working to recover outstanding stolen property and complete profiling of the accused.