Armed Robbery at Chivayo Inlaws’ Farm: $75,000 Stolen in Military-Style Heist
Up to 20 armed intruders raided the farm of Wicknell Chivayo’s in-laws in Marondera, stealing $75,000 in cash and personal belongings. The money was reportedly part of the bride price Chivayo paid for his marriage. Local farmers faced threats and retreated, witnessing the operation’s military-style execution. Police are investigating the crime, with one guard assaulted and a neighboring resident intervening during the raid.
In a dramatic incident in Marondera, Zimbabwe, up to 20 armed men raided the farm of Wicknell Chivayo’s in-laws, stealing $75,000 and various personal items. This cash is presumed to be part of the bride price paid by Chivayo for his marriage to Lulu Muteke. While rumors suggested he paid $300,000 in lobola, he claimed the actual amount was closer to $20,000, though he confirmed sending $75,000 to assist with wedding preparations.
The police were alerted after gunfire was heard at Alpha Omega Farm. A distress call from Chivayo’s father-in-law, Christopher Mudzingwa Muteke, prompted local farmers to respond, but they quickly withdrew upon realizing the armed group was well-organized and heavily armed, resembling a military operation. Witnesses reported seeing a large white truck parked nearby, adding to the operation’s ominous nature.
Security at the farm included three guards from a private security firm, in addition to one guard directly employed by the Mutekes. One security guard reported being ambushed around 1 AM by a group of 19 armed men wielding rifles, pistols, and other weapons, while the intruders demanded the whereabouts of the other guards. They tied him up and quickly overpowered the second guard, seizing his shotgun.
The gang then forcibly entered the farmhouse, with one occupant, Gerald Muteke, confronted in the hallway and coerced into handing over $18,000 in cash, a firearm, and two high-end smartphones. They also targeted Vimbai Muteke, who surrendered $1,100 and gave over the keys to the safe, which contained an additional $55,000. During the raid, a courageous neighbor intervened, firing shots from a distance which prompted the robbers to flee, leaving behind an iron bar that police will analyze for fingerprints.
Chivayo stated he was unaware of the robbery, insisting, “No-one has told me.”
The raid at Wicknell Chivayo’s in-laws’ farm highlights significant security concerns and the audacity of organized criminal groups. With substantial amounts of cash stolen, the incident raises questions about the safety of high-profile individuals and their families in Zimbabwe. The involvement of law enforcement and private security firms demonstrates the complexities of safeguarding wealthy estates against such violent incursions.
Original Source: www.zimlive.com
