Crime Reporter
Police have urged businesspeople to step up security measures at their premises following cases in which criminals are targeting them looking for cash, especially during the night.

For the past few months, there have been cases in which criminals have been raiding premises and homes looking for cash and several people lost thousands of dollars.

In a statement, national police spokesperson Chief Superitndent Paul Nyathi said where possible, they should install closed circuit television (CCTV) to enhance security.

Police are investigating two separate cases of armed robberies and murder which recently occurred in Karoi and Gutu.

Chief Supt Nyathi said on May 17 at around 6.30pm, a wholesaler in Karoi was counting his daily takings and conducting stock-take in the company of two employees when an 88-year-old security guard manning the premise was attacked by four armed robbers who were armed with a pistol and an AK47 rifle.

“The gang was driving a black vehicle believed to be a Toyota Wish. One of the four men manhandled the unarmed security guards whilst the other three entered the wholesale, confronted the owner and ransacked the shop,” he said.

He said the robbers shot the businessman and used a hammer to break two safes where they stole unknown amount of cash.

The robbers also stole $1 598 from one of the employees.

Police said the businessman later died after admission at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals.

“Businesspersons are urged to step up security at their premises and avoid counting daily takings and conducting stock take late into the night. Where possible, companies and wholesale owners are encouraged to install CCTVs to enhance security at their premise,” Chief Supt Nyathi said.

Chief Supt Nyathi said in another incident which occurred in Runyowa Village, Gutu, a 31-year-old herd boy killed his 58-year-old employer by striking him several times on the face and head with an axe.

“The motive of the murder is not known as the herd boy who had worked for the now deceased for about six months fled after the incident,” he said. He said investigations on the case was still in progress.

“Employers are implored to vet prospective employees who include herd boys to curtail chances of employing criminals.

“The police is appealing for information which can lead to the identification and arrest of all these suspects involved in the armed robbery and murder cases. Anyone with information can report to their nearest police station or contact the national complaints office on (04) 703631,” Chief Supt Nyathi said.