Beitbridge residents have expressed their dissatisfaction with local police officers, accusing them of negligence that resulted in the escape of two suspected armed robbers. The suspects had been apprehended following a tip-off from the community, but some residents speculate that corruption might have played a role in their release.
National police spokesman Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi responded to the allegations, stating that the information provided by Beitbridge residents differed from the police’s official report. However, he assured the public that both scenarios would be thoroughly investigated.
According to reports, last week an individual spotted three men near the Limpopo River, with one of them seen carrying a firearm. The citizen promptly alerted the security agents responsible for border patrol under the operation name “No To Cross Border Crimes.” The agents swiftly responded and managed to arrest two of the suspects, but the one carrying the firearm managed to escape, fleeing across the river to South Africa.
Following their arrest, the two apprehended suspects were handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department officers at Beitbridge Police. However, concerns have been raised regarding the security measures employed during their custody. Beitbridge residents question whether there was a report of missing handcuffs, whether the suspects were being escorted on foot, and whether the police attempted to apprehend the escaping suspects.
Beitbridge has recently witnessed a surge in violent armed robberies, often involving the use of firearms. Incidents such as a child being shot in the knee and another person narrowly escaping a robbery attempt have shaken the community.
Confirming the reports, Officer commanding Beitbridge Police District Chief Superintendent Tichaona Nyongo acknowledged a robbery in the eastern suburbs of Beitbridge where a firearm was involved.
These armed robbers believed to have connections in Musina, seem to possess inside information and specifically target money changers who operate in large numbers in Beitbridge.
The incident has raised concerns about the effectiveness of police operations and the need for improved law enforcement measures to combat crime in the area.
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