Source: Lone robber nabbed after crime spree – herald
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
A BULAWAYO man, who allegedly posed as a genuine passenger to rob unsuspecting motorists at gunpoint, has been arrested after a string of attacks targeting taxi drivers and commuter omnibus crews.
Nkosana Maketho (35) is facing eight counts of armed robbery, with police linking him to a series of incidents in which he would request lifts before turning on his victims.
Confirming the arrest, Criminal Investigations Department (CID) spokesperson Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri said the suspect’s latest attack triggered a swift police response that led to his capture.
“On May 9, 2026, the suspect, masquerading as a genuine commuter, stopped a motorist who was driving a Honda Fit along Wellington Road in Bellevue, Bulawayo. While en route, he produced a firearm, threatened the complainant and demanded cash and other valuables. Fearing for his life, the complainant surrendered US$50 before the suspect disembarked and fled into the darkness,” she said.
The victim quickly alerted members of the public, who joined in searching nearby maize fields while police were notified.
Detectives from CID Homicide in Bulawayo responded promptly, leading to the suspect’s arrest and the recovery of a Blow F92 9mm calibre blank gun believed to have been used in the crimes.
Further investigations have since linked Maketho to seven other armed robbery cases committed in the city, all following a similar pattern.
In one incident on April 19, 2026, at the intersection of Nketa Drive and Masiyephambili Drive, the suspect allegedly targeted a kombi crew after being offered a lift.
He reportedly produced a pistol during the journey and robbed the crew of their daily takings.
In a separate case the previous day, at around 8:30pm, the suspect approached a taxi driver parked at the corner of Lobengula Street and 8th Avenue, pretending to be a customer seeking transport to Bellevue.
Along the way, he allegedly drew a firearm and robbed the driver.
Later that same night, at around 11:50pm, another motorist was robbed under similar circumstances.
Police said several stolen cellphones have been recovered following the suspect’s arrest.
Maketho has since appeared in court and was remanded in custody.
Authorities have warned motorists against offering lifts to strangers, saying the practice exposes them to criminal attacks.
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