KEY POINTS
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Armed robbers stole US$4,300 from Crystal Lounge in Bulawayo during a daylight heist that involved holding staff members hostage.
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Police responded swiftly but the three unidentified suspects had already fled the scene; investigations are ongoing.
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The robbery has prompted calls for improved security measures at nightclubs and bars, especially those handling large cash amounts.
Police in Bulawayo have confirmed a brazen armed robbery at Crystal Lounge, a local nightclub situated at the corner of 13th Avenue and Robert Mugabe Way.
The robbery occurred early on Sunday morning, May 11, 2025, and resulted in the theft of US$4,300 in cash.
According to a statement issued by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the robbery incident unfolded at approximately 10:00 am as the nightclub’s staff were counting the previous night’s earnings.
Herald reports that it was during this routine cash reconciliation that three unidentified armed suspects stormed the premises, caught the workers off guard, and held them hostage at gunpoint.
“The ZRP is investigating a case of armed robbery which occurred today at around 1000 hours at a local bar located at corner 13th Avenue and R Mugabe Way, Bulawayo,” the statement read. “Three suspects who are yet to be identified attacked the staff members as they were counting the daily cash takings and held them hostage.”
Suspects fled before police arrival at robbery scene
The robbers are reported to have made off with US$4,300 in cash before police officers arrived at the robbery scene. The authorities stated that although all relevant policing units were deployed quickly, the suspects had already vanished from the area by the time law enforcement arrived.
“Police swiftly attended the scene after receiving the report and mobilised all the relevant sections who attended the scene within the shortest possible time. Unfortunately, the suspects had fled,” the statement added.
Crystal Lounge, known for its vibrant nightlife and weekend crowd, had just closed for the morning after a busy Saturday night when the crime occurred. The time of the robbery—mid-morning—raises concerns about increasing boldness among criminal elements in the city, targeting venues even after peak hours.
This robbery incident has reignited public calls for stronger security measures at entertainment venues, especially those handling large volumes of cash. Residents and local business owners have suggested that nightclubs and bars should consider investing in professional security services, surveillance cameras, and secure storage for cash handling.
A nearby shop owner, who requested anonymity, described the robbery as “shocking but not entirely unexpected.” He added, “These places make a lot of money, especially on weekends, and criminals are always watching. We need more patrols in this area.”
As investigations continue, police are urging anyone with information about the robbery or the suspects to come forward. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is currently being reviewed, and investigators are optimistic that the suspects will be identified and brought to justice.
This robbery is one of several reported in Bulawayo over the past few months, sparking wider concerns about crime trends in the city and the readiness of police units to respond to incidents involving armed gangs.
