Harare,Zimbabwe- TWO courageous Real Star Security guards who bravely stood their ground against eight armed robbers at a Petrotrade service station in Mabvuku, Harare, have been commended and rewarded by their employer.
The incident, which took place just after 1 AM on Thursday, saw Bhekimpilo Sibanda and Isaac Nhamo confront the heavily armed gang during their night shift. Despite being outnumbered, the guards engaged the robbers in a gunfight, ultimately forcing them to flee empty-handed.
Sibanda, armed with a .303 service rifle, reportedly wounded the gang’s suspected leader during the exchange. The robbers returned fire but were met with steadfast resistance from the guards, who also called for backup. Realising their mission had failed, the attackers retreated towards Mutare Road.
Police and a Real Star Security reaction team responded swiftly, but the robbers had already escaped. No injuries were reported.
Real Star Security’s assistant operations manager, Mr. Oskah Mugomeri, confirmed that the suspects had gained entry by cutting a section of the perimeter fence on the southern side of the premises, which had closed for business around 8 PM the previous evening.
As recognition for their bravery and swift action, Sibanda and Nhamo were awarded grocery hampers and US$2,000 each on Friday.
“We are proud of our guards, Bhekimpilo Sibanda and Isaac Nhamo, for their vigilance and courage. Their quick thinking and fearless response helped avert what could have been a major loss,” said Mr. Mugomeri.
Mugomeri is a former senior cop with more than three decades of law enforcement.
Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, also confirmed the attempted robbery and ongoing investigations.
“No guard was injured and the robbers left without taking anything,” said Insp Chakanza.
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