Bigboy Nampungo, aged 27, was sentenced to 30 years in prison for his role in a $74,000 armed robbery at Wicknell Chivayo’s in-laws’ farm in Marondera. He pleaded guilty to six counts of armed robbery, while his co-accused await trial. The robbery included severe violence against security personnel and significant theft of cash and valuables.
In Harare, an armed robber named Bigboy Nampungo, 27, has received a prison sentence of 60 years for his involvement in a robbery that targeted businessman Wicknell Chivayo’s in-laws in Marondera. His sentence is effectively reduced to 30 years, as half will run concurrently with three of his counts. Nampungo pleaded guilty to robbing six individuals, while several co-accused remain in custody, denying the allegations.
The armed robbery occurred on March 18, 2023, at approximately 1 AM, when Nampungo and his accomplices arrived at Alpha and Omega Farm equipped with firearms, machetes, and other tools. They attacked the security personnel, specifically targeting staff members Zex Mutasha Rusike, Petros Mabhunu, and Medic Zhakata, inflicting violence to obtain information about their colleagues and attempting to secure the premises.
During the robbery, the attackers restrained the guards and proceeded to the main house, where they demanded cash and valuables. They coerced a guard into surrendering substantial amounts, including $18,000 in cash, a loaded Sarsilmaz pistol, and a Samsung phone. Further, they secured access to a safe containing another $55,000, in addition to cash obtained from Vimbai, the homeowner.
The incident escalated when an armed individual, Elphas Maruta, attempted to intervene, exchanging gunfire with the robbers. The suspects ultimately fled the scene with stolen items valued at around $74,000. The remaining suspects involved in this incident have been remanded in custody, awaiting their court proceedings scheduled for April 10.
The swift trial resulted in Bigboy Nampungo’s conviction for his role in a significant armed robbery, demonstrating the judicial system’s efforts to address crime effectively. His sentence reflects the severity of the offense and serves as a warning to others involved in similar criminal activities. The ongoing legal proceedings against his co-accused will further elucidate the extent of the criminal operation that was involved.
Original Source: www.zimlive.com
