A man accused of masterminding a break-in at a Nedbank branch in Bulawayo in which about US$282,000, R2.4 million and five gold coins were stolen has applied for discharge at the close of the State’s case.
Bhekani Mlilo, who is facing charges of unlawful entry and theft in aggravating circumstances, made the application through his lawyer, Tawanda Tavengwa of Mvundla Tavengwa Solicitors.
The matter was further remanded to October 5, 2026, when Bulawayo Regional Magistrate Mathew Mutiro is expected to rule on the application.
Tavengwa argued that the State had failed to present sufficient evidence linking his client to the offence and asked the court to dismiss the charges.
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Mlilo remains in custody.
The State alleges that Mlilo was in the company of Lovemore Gambiza, who has already been convicted and sentenced for his role in the break-in.
Prosecutor Owen Mugari told the court that on August 26, 2023, at about 1pm, the bank manager and other employees closed the premises after business hours, leaving cash and other valuables secured inside the vault.
The State alleges that at about 1am the following day, Mlilo and Gambiza approached the eastern side of the bank building.
“The duo scaled a precast wall at the back of the premises after cutting through the security razor wire. They then cut and removed a metal burglar bar protecting a back office window before gaining entry into the bank,” Mugari said.
Once inside, the two allegedly forced open the server room before using a high-temperature gas-cutting torch to cut through the bank’s Chubb vault.
Mugari said the suspects stole US$282,000, more than R2.4 million and five gold coins before loading the valuables into bags.
The State further alleges that the pair removed the bank’s Network Video Recorder (NVR), which stored CCTV footage, in an attempt to destroy evidence before fleeing the scene.
The break-in was discovered later that morning when bank employees arrived for work and found the premises ransacked.
Police investigations allegedly led to the recovery of discarded tissue paper and cigarette butts from inside the bank. The items were submitted for forensic DNA analysis.
The court also heard that investigators intercepted a Toyota Venture allegedly used in the robbery.
A search of the vehicle reportedly led to the recovery of Nedbank cash bags and plastic cash seals concealed beneath the seats.
The State is opposing the application for discharge.
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