South African police have arrested two Zimbabwean fugitives in connection with one of the biggest bank heists in Zimbabwe’s recent history, the US$4 million (approximately R70.3 million) robbery in Bulawayo.
Two Zimbabwean brothers nabbed in SA
The South African authorities arrested the Zimbabwean brothers Abraham and Elijah Temayi Vumbunu on Saturday, Zimbabwean police have confirmed.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the arrest came as police intensified efforts to track down the culprits.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Abraham Temayi Vumbunu and Elijah Temayi Vumbunu in connection with the US$4 million Ecobank robbery which occurred on 3 October 2024. The suspects were arrested on 5 July 2025 in the Republic of South Africa. The due processes of the law are now taking effect for their extradition to Zimbabwe,” said Comm Nyathi.
Authorities reportedly linked the brothers to several other robberies, and they ranked among Zimbabwe’s most wanted suspects. They are now awaiting extradition back home to face charges.
The biggest robbery in Zimbabwe
The October 2024 heist, one of Zimbabwe’s most audacious cash thefts, saw robbers break into an Ecobank branch in Bulawayo.
Inside sources say the gang had insider knowledge and operated with military-style precision, escaping with duffel bags filled with foreign currency.
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