Killers gun down Bulawayo businessman in front of his own son in US$10k robbery

A Bulawayo businessman was shot dead in front of his son by unknown assailants, who robbed him of a substantial sum of cash before fleeing the scene.

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident, which occurred on Monday, 14 September, near a service station along JMN Nkomo Street, between Fourth and Third Avenue, in Bulawayo.

According to Nyathi, three unidentified suspects shot the victim, Tadius Rutanhire, 52, with a pistol before making off with his bag, which contained US$10,000 in cash.

Nyathi said Rutanhire had just closed his shop for the day and was walking towards his son’s car — his son having come to collect him — when he was attacked.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is appealing for information which may assist in the investigation of a murder and armed robbery case which occurred near a service station along JMN Nkomo Street, between Fourth and Third Avenue, Bulawayo on 14th September 2026,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

“Three unidentified suspects shot dead the victim, Tadius Rutanhire (52), with a pistol before fleeing with his bag containing USD 10 000.00.

“The victim, who was a businessperson, had just closed his shop and was walking towards his son’s vehicle who had come to pick him.

“Anyone with information to report at any nearest Police Station or contact the National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631 or WhatsApp on 0712 800 197.”