Real Star security guards who foiled an armed robbery rewarded by employer

Harare- TWO brave Real Star Security guards who defied the odds by successfully repelling an attack from eight armed robbers who raided a service station in Harare last week have been rewarded by their employer.

After meeting stiff resistance from the guards, which culminated in a gun fight, the empty-handed robbers beat a hasty retreat from the Petrotrade service station in Mabvuku.

Police confirmed the incident which happened just after 1am on Thursday.

For their outstanding bravery, Bhekimpilo Sibanda and Isaac Nhamo on Friday received grocery hampers and US$2 000 cash from Real Star Security.

The two were on guard duty at the service station when they were confronted by the robbers.
Despite the larger number of the attackers, Sibanda was unflinching as he fired his service .303 rifle at the gang, wounding the suspected leader.
The robbers shot back but the guards stood their ground as they called for reinforcements.
Realising that their attempt was becoming futile, the robbers fled towards Mutare Road.

Police and a Real Star Security reaction team attended the scene but the robbers had made good their escape.

Real Star Security assistant operations manager Mr Oskah Mugomeri said the suspects entered the fuel station’s premises after cutting a section of the perimeter diamond mesh wire on the southern side.

The service station had closed for business at around 8pm the previous day.

Mugomeri is a former senior police officer with over 30 years in law enforcement and he has imparted the experience to his staffers.

Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza said investigations were in progress.

“No guard sustained any injuries and the robbers failed to get anything,” said Insp Chakanza.
Mr Mugomeri hailed Sibanda and Nhamo for their heroics which he said prevented huge losses.

“We would like to commend our security personnel Bhekimpilo Sibanda and Isaac Nhamo for their vigilance, dedication to duty and quick action.
“Their alertness and bravery played a crucial role in preventing a more serious situation.”