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Armed Robbers Raid Celebration Church, Steal Cash<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
By A Correspondent \u2013 A brazen armed robbery at Celebration Church in Westgate has left security staff shaken after four masked men overpowered guards and made off with cash and equipment.<\/p>\n
The suspects, reportedly carrying a pistol and a rifle, tied the legs of two security guards with wires and electrical cables before locking them inside the guard room.<\/p>\n
They then forced their way into the church office, broke open a steel cabinet, and stole a cash safe containing US$500 along with two HP laptops.<\/p>\n
The robbers also searched the guards themselves, taking US$30 and two Itel cellphones, and reportedly assaulted them using a knobkerrie.<\/p>\n
The security personnel were only released when a Safeguard driver arrived at the scene.<\/p>\n
Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, Harare provincial police spokesperson, confirmed the attack.<\/p>\n
\u201cPolice are investigating an armed robbery case at the church premises in Westgate,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe security guards sustained minor injuries and are in stable condition,\u201d Inspector Chakanza added.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe total value stolen is US$620, and nothing has been recovered as of yet. A live round was also found in the guard room where the security guards were bound.\u201d<\/p>\n
Authorities have launched a manhunt for the suspects, urging anyone with information about the robbery to come forward.<\/p>\n
The church community has expressed shock and concern over the violent incident.<\/p>\n
\u201cIncidents like this are alarming,\u201d said one church member who wished to remain anonymous. \u201cWe never imagined something like this could happen in a place of worship.\u201d<\/p>\n
The police continue to investigate the robbery as the search for the perpetrators intensifies.<\/p>\n
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