Armed Robbers Strike Choppies Supermarket in Bulawayo, Escape with Cash

A Choppies Supermarket in Bulawayo’s New Luveve was attacked by armed robbers on Saturday night, creating chaos among employees and local vendors.

The assailants, equipped with firearms, discharged shots, nearly hitting a security guard before violently attacking another.

They stabbed a second guard four times and struck the manager’s head, compelling him to unlock the store’s main entrance.

With the supermarket’s cash in hand, amounting to US$1,000, the robbers fled on foot just after the store had closed at 8 PM.

The gunfire was initially mistaken for New Year’s fireworks by nearby vendors, only to realize it was a heist.

A blackout at the time of the robbery provided the darkness needed for the criminals to operate unseen.

Commissioner Paul Nyathi of the National Police confirmed the incident, stating that they are actively investigating the case.

This event echoes a 2021 incident where a cash-in-transit vehicle was hit, raising similar suspicions of internal betrayal.

Bulawayo’s law enforcement recently made significant arrests, capturing eight members of an armed robbery gang.

The apprehended individuals, linked to numerous crimes, stole goods valued over US$10,000 and have now faced the court.

Among those charged are Elvis Charakupa, Khulumani Moyo, Mavrick Dube, and others, accused of robbery and firearm-related offenses.

This latest robbery at Choppies adds to the city’s ongoing battle against organized crime, particularly targeting retail businesses.

The incident underscores the persistent security challenges faced by commercial establishments in Bulawayo.

As the police delve deeper, the community awaits answers on how such a brazen attack could occur.

The supermarket’s staff, still shaken, are left to recover from the physical and psychological trauma of the event.

This robbery not only affects Choppies but also serves as a stark reminder of the need for enhanced security measures.

The escape of the robbers on foot suggests they had a strategic plan, possibly indicating prior knowledge of the area.

The arrest of the robbery syndicate members earlier this year might have left a void, now filled by new criminals.

The community’s sense of safety is once again challenged, making this incident a public concern beyond just the supermarket.

As Bulawayo grapples with these crimes, the effectiveness of local law enforcement remains under scrutiny.

The ongoing investigation into this case will be crucial in restoring public confidence and ensuring justice is served.

The narrative of this robbery at Choppies will likely influence local business practices and security policies moving forward.