By Staff Reporter
Two employees of Brainscope Investments were violently robbed of US$56,500 in company funds by armed assailants yesterday morning while they were on their way to deposit the cash at a bank in Southerton.
The victims, identified as Yvonne Zulu, 29, and her driver, Simbarashe Chiinze, 24, were ambushed along Plymouth Road. The brazen daylight attack occurred near the intersection of Plymouth and Melbourne Road.
According to police sources, the employees’ vehicle was intercepted by a silver Toyota Fortuner that deliberately blocked their path. Two armed men immediately exited the Fortuner, brandishing firearms.
“One of the suspects shattered the passenger side window to gain access to the vehicle,” said a police representative. “They forcibly grabbed a bag containing the company money, totaling US$56,500, which was situated on the passenger seat.”
In addition to the company money, the robbers searched the driver, Simbarashe Chiinze, and stole his wallet, which contained personal identification documents and an additional US$1,500 of his personal cash.
Following the swift execution of the robbery, the criminals returned to their getaway vehicle and sped off from the scene. The total loss in the incident is estimated at US$58,000.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the matter, although no arrests have been made at the time of reporting.
“We urge all businesses transporting large sums of cash to use proper security protocols or authorized cash-in-transit services to minimize the risk of such attacks,” the police representative added.
The incident highlights a growing concern over the safety of transporting cash, particularly in commercial areas. Police are appealing to the public for any information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects.
