Armed robber shot by police in Vainona dies

Ranganayi Chipwanya, the armed robber who was shot while perched on top of a house in Vainona during a shootout with the police, has died. He died on his way to Parirenyatwa Hospital on Thursday evening soon after being shot.

His accomplice, Takudzwa Wiseman, who was arrested unhurt is in police custody assisting with investigations. Police spokesperson Chief Inspector James Sabau confirmed the death.

“Ranganayi Chipwanya who was reported to have been seriously inju-red after the shootout unfortunately died before he reached Parirenyatwa Hospital,” he said. “The body was taken to the hospital mortuary for a post-mortem.”

Chief Insp Sabau said the two were intercepted at Groombridge shops after the public suspected them to be transporting stolen property.

He said the property had been stolen from a Chinese family in Mt Pleasant. The stolen property included a rifle, a plasma television set, two radio speakers, four blankets, three pairs of trousers and a leather jacket.

The property, according to Chief Insp Sabau, was stolen from Mr Feng Dejin’s house in Mt Pleasant on August 8.

“A report was made the following day at Marlborough Police Station,” he said. “On Thursday, the property was discovered when the duo had hired a taxi to ferry the loot. They were disturbed by residents who informed the police.” After the incident, the mob followed the two until they got into a kombi and later jumped out.

They then jumped into various properties in Vainona until they got to Mr Jacob Lobbs’ house where they were finally arrested. Chief Insp Sabau commended the residents for assisting the police in the fight against crime. “We very much appreciate the public support and the togetherness exhibited by the residents,” he said.

“That is the kind of support we have been longing for and we encourage others to take a cue from the Vainona residents. Such kind of public support will help the police to reduce crime in all communities.”