Police Close In on Ecobank US$4 Million Heist Suspects

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has intensified efforts to apprehend the armed robbers behind the Ecobank Parkade branch heist in Bulawayo that netted US$4 million two months ago.

Authorities have collaborated with Interpol and South African police, suspecting the gang is hiding across the border. Investigations have identified several suspects in connection with the audacious crime.

The suspects include Elijah Vumbunu, also known as Mupositori, David Sawadye, Israel Zulu, Kudakwashe Mudzingwa (alias Umbro), Takafa Vumbunu (alias Naison Mahembe), Paul Chinake, and Brian Murape.

Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi revealed to ZTN that police are making significant progress in the high-profile investigation and are confident the culprits will be brought to justice.

Nyathi reiterated the police’s commitment to solving the case, assuring the public that updates would be provided as developments unfold, regardless of the suspects’ current location.

The heist, executed with military precision, lasted under two minutes. Six masked men, armed and efficient, struck while security guards loaded cash into a van.

Driving a white Ford Ranger, the gang ambushed the Safeguard crew, seized the cash trunks, and sped away, leaving the guards overwhelmed and unable to react.

Authorities suspect an insider played a pivotal role in coordinating the robbery, further complicating the investigation and raising questions about internal security measures.

The dramatic theft, which attracted international attention, marked one of the largest cash heists in Zimbabwe in recent years, highlighting the sophistication of organized crime.

Following the incident, Ecobank Parkade branch temporarily shut down to allow thorough investigations. It reopened its doors on December 2, signaling a return to normal operations.

The robbery underscored the vulnerability of cash transit operations, with industry experts urging for heightened security protocols to deter similar high-stakes crimes.

ZRP remains optimistic that their collaborative efforts with regional and international law enforcement agencies will result in swift arrests and recovery of the stolen funds.