Details have emerged about how a thief managed to break into one of Zimbabwe’s most secure suburbs, making off with an astonishing US$1 million in cash.
Last week, Zimbabweans were left with many questions when news broke that a robber had infiltrated a secure gated luxury complex in Harare, making a clean getaway with a staggering sum of US$1 million in cash.
The complex, located in Harare’s upscale Borrowdale Brooke suburb, is touted as one of the safest neighbourhoods in Zimbabwe. Entry is restricted to cleared visitors only. However, a Chinese businesswoman residing in the plush complex lost over US$1 million during a burglary at her home while she was away in Zvishavane last week. The stolen cash was loaded into a suitcase.
In addition to the hefty sum, the thief also made off with an extra US$950 from a satchel. Interestingly, even after hitting the jackpot with a million dollars, the robber didn’t stop there and also took three US$10 Buddie recharge cards.
The thief is believed to have gained entry into the house by forcing open the businesswoman’s bedroom window.
The Chinese businesswoman’s friends with whom she shares the house told her they had also fallen victim to the same thief, losing both airtime and cash.
Before leaving for Zvishavane, the businesswoman reportedly secured her room.
Following the incident, security measures were intensified for visitors entering the complex. A security guard who spoke to source on condition of anonymity expressed suspicions that a resident of the complex might have orchestrated the robbery.
“We heard about the robbery, involving a large amount of money, and we are sure that the suspects involved could be among the residents,” said a security guard, who chose not to be named.
The security guard highlighted that burglaries are uncommon at the luxury complex and as a result the recent incident is still the talk of the town.
“A number of people, including business owners, have not been banking money and thereby exposing themselves to thieves. Everyone is still talking about this robbery, it’s something that doesn’t usually happen here,” the security guard added.
Source iHarare
