CHINHOYI — A man accused of being part of an alleged staged armed robbery involving US$10,000 died upon admission to hospital after he was reportedly assaulted by members of the public while under police custody, authorities said on Monday.
Police said Tawanda Marumahoko, 34, died at Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital following injuries sustained when he allegedly attempted to escape as detectives escorted him to the scene where a firearm was recovered.
Police say some members of the public attacked him while trying to effect a citizen’s arrest.
“The matter is under investigation,” National police spokesman Commissioner Paul Nyathi said.
Marumahoko had been arrested after being implicated by Kenneth Tsvarisai, 32, a bread delivery truck driver who was taken into custody on November 15 in connection with what police described as a purportedly staged robbery that happened along the Harare–Chirundu Road on November 14.
The incident allegedly involved the theft of US$10,000 and a cellphone from a delivery vehicle travelling from Banket to Chinhoyi.
Police said initial investigations suggested that Tsvarisai supplied inside information and allegedly conspired with accomplices soon after receiving money from his manager.
He allegedly told investigators that Marumahoko received part of the suspected proceeds, leading to his arrest and the recovery of US$4,680, while US$300 was reportedly used to secure legal representation.
Detectives were later led to the crime scene where an Eko P29 ONT 007 blowgun with a magazine of eight rounds was recovered.
Authorities did not immediately say whether any law enforcement officials were present during the mob assault or whether anyone has been arrested in connection with Marumahoko’s death.
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