In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through the Harare community, three men have been charged with attempted murder following an alleged attack on local businessman Blessed Runesu. Ronald Mpopoma (38), Trevor Chigumba (40), and Fungayi Razawu (58) appeared before Magistrate Stanford Mambanje and were remanded in custody until October 22, with instructions to seek bail through the High Court.
The confrontation unfolded on September 12 at Lot 5 Spitzkop in Harare, when the accused, driving a BMW X6, allegedly blocked Runesu’s vehicle from both ends while accompanied by unidentified individuals in a Toyota Prado. In a terrifying turn of events, Mpopoma reportedly exited the vehicle and fired two shots towards Runesu’s Range Rover. Fortunately, Runesu’s driver, Rueben, reacted swiftly, maneuvering the vehicle away from danger and managing to reach the ZRP Dzivarasekwa police station, where they promptly filed a report.
Following a thorough investigation, law enforcement officials apprehended the suspects and recovered two double-barreled shotguns along with a 12-bore Mossberg firearm, believed to be linked to the attack. This incident has raised serious concerns about safety and security for businesspeople in Harare. As the legal proceedings progress, there is an urgent call for authorities to address the increasing violence in the city and ensure justice is served.
Community leaders and business owners are urging law enforcement to enhance protective measures and increase police visibility, particularly in high-risk areas. The attack on Runesu underscores a growing unease regarding personal safety among entrepreneurs, a crucial demographic for the city’s economic health. As this case unfolds, many in Harare will be watching closely, hoping for a resolution that not only addresses the specific incident but also sets a precedent for the safety and security of all citizens.
In other news – Bus crew and passengers arrested for possession of mbanje
In a significant operation targeting cross-border crime, police have arrested the crew and two passengers of an Inter Africa bus after seizing 62 kilograms of dagga (cannabis) during a routine security roadblock on the Masvingo-Beitbridge Road. The incident occurred on September 22 at the 10km peg, as part of the ongoing initiative “No to Cross Border Crimes.”
According to a statement from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) shared on their X (formerly Twitter) account, the suspects include bus driver Tonderai Mafo (48), conductor Mberikunashe Allen (25), and passengers Pauline Mudakuvaka (36) and Alice Mutanda (68). They were intercepted at the roadblock during a security check. Read More
