A suspected armed robber who had been terrorising business centres in Chinhoyi and surrounding areas has been arrested following a series of daring raids that left victims traumatised and thousands of dollars poorer.
Takunda Greatman Chinakuse (26) was arrested on August 15, 2025, after detectives from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) received a tip-off linking him to five recent robberies at Zurungove Business Centre, Golden Kopje, and Makonde.
In a statement, CID spokesperson Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri said Chinakuse, who was armed with firearms and operating with accomplices still at large, violently threatened shop owners, fired shots and demanded valuables.
“One of the victims lost US$4 524 in the process. The suspect has been on the police wanted list for three other robbery cases committed in 2024,” said Muteweri.
She said detectives swooped on Chinakuse after tracking his movements and intercepted him while driving a Toyota Passo (registration AET 0656).
“Following a thorough search of his vehicle, various cellphones, 17 by 12 bore live rounds, two by 303 rifle live rounds and two axes were recovered,” Muteweri revealed.
The suspect appeared before Chinhoyi Magistrates Court and Chinhoyi Regional Court on August 19, 2025, on both the new charges and an outstanding warrant of arrest.
He was remanded in custody to August 26 and September 2 respectively.
Police have since launched a manhunt for Chinakuse’s accomplices who remain at large.
