In an unusual courtroom setting, Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo convened a special court session on Tuesday at Parirenyatwa Hospital, where a suspected armed robber is receiving treatment after being shot during an attempted robbery.
The accused, 39-year-old Gift Moffat of Glaudina Park in Harare, appeared before the magistrate while lying in a hospital bed under tight security provided by the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services. Though visibly in pain and recovering from gunshot wounds sustained during the failed heist, Moffat remained alert throughout the brief hearing.
During the proceedings, Armed Robber ,Moffat was not asked to plead to the charges, which stem from a violent attempted robbery earlier this month. Magistrate Moyo ordered that he be remanded in custody under the close supervision of prison authorities until his case is fully heard and determined.
Prosecutor Nomsa Kangara laid out the State’s preliminary case, alleging that on June 15, Moffat and several unidentified accomplices hatched a plan to rob Takunda Ushe, a 45-year-old businessman and Managing Director of the Financial Clearing Bureau.
Suspected Armed Robber Appears in Hospital Court Session After Being Shot in Foiled Heist
According to the prosecution, Armed Robberand his accomplices had been closely monitoring Ushe’s movements and financial dealings in the days leading up to the attempted robbery. On the day of the incident, the gang reportedly tracked Ushe to an undisclosed location where they intended to strike.
Armed with firearms and allegedly wearing masks to conceal their identities, the suspects ambushed Ushe in what authorities believe was a well-planned and coordinated robbery attempt. However, their plan quickly unravelled when law enforcement officers who had received a tip-off about the planned heist intervened at the scene.
In the exchange that followed, a shootout erupted between the armed suspects and the police. Moffat was shot and incapacitated during the gunfire, while the rest of the gang reportedly fled the scene on foot, abandoning their injured accomplice.
Moffat was rushed to Parirenyatwa Hospital under heavy police escort, where he has remained in custody while receiving medical care. Security at the hospital remains tight, with correctional officers stationed outside his ward around the clock to prevent any potential escape or external interference.
The State emphasized that Moffat faces serious charges, including attempted armed robbery, unlawful possession of firearms, and resisting arrest. If convicted, he could face a lengthy prison sentence.
Authorities also revealed that investigations are ongoing to track down Moffat’s accomplices, who are still at large. Police have urged members of the public to come forward with any information that could assist in the arrest of the remaining suspects, warning that they are considered armed and dangerous.
Meanwhile, legal experts have noted the unusual nature of holding court proceedings within a hospital, highlighting the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring that justice is served regardless of the circumstances. “While hospital court sessions are rare, they are legally permissible in cases where the accused is unable to attend regular court due to medical reasons,” said one Harare-based legal practitioner.
The case has captured public attention due to its dramatic nature, involving a high-profile businessman and a brazen robbery attempt thwarted by swift police action. Many have commended the police for their quick response, which likely prevented serious injury or loss of life during the confrontation.
As the investigation continues, more details are expected to emerge regarding the planning and execution of the attempted Armed Robbery, including whether the suspects had inside information about Ushe’s movements or financial dealings.
Armed Robber,Gift Moffat remains under guard as he recovers from his injuries, with his next court appearance scheduled once he is deemed fit to attend in person. The case underscores the growing boldness of criminal elements targeting business executives, and the determination of law enforcement to bring offenders to justice—even from a hospital bed.
