ZIMSPHERE
HARARE—The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has expressed deep concern over a troubling rise in murder cases across the country, predominantly stemming from domestic violence and disputes.
These incidents include conflicts over extramarital affairs, property division during separations, and the inability of couples to resolve minor issues.
Murder cases are also linked to altercations at drinking spots, witchcraft accusations, and debt disputes, according to National Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi.
Alarmingly, there have been instances where minors, aged between seven and seventeen, have killed one another during play or while performing various chores.
Assistant Commissioner Nyathi highlighted several cases that the ZRP is currently investigating, urging the public to "respect the sanctity of human life."
Recent cases under investigation
In one incident, police are investigating the murder of Aphocine Mandimutsa (24) by her husband, Liberty Chimurambi (28), on July 20, 2024, at Bigest Farm, Tengwe.
Chimurambi allegedly lured Mandimutsa to a footpath and stabbed her in the neck before committing suicide.
Mandimutsa's body was found about 500 meters from her parents' homestead, while Chimurambi was found hanging from a tree at Paradise Farm the next day. The couple had reportedly separated due to infidelity issues.
Another case involved Ezekiel Chibvongodze (29) who allegedly stabbed his wife, Mitchel Evelyn Katakwe (25), and their son, Tawana Chibvongodze (5), with an okapi knife on July 21, 2024, in Nyameni, Marondera. Following the incident, Chibvongodze fled but later surrendered to the police.
On July 19, 2024, Memory Choga (41) was arrested for the murder of her husband, Douglas Choga (45), at Jeche Primary School, Sadza. The suspect reportedly assaulted the victim with a log following a disagreement over financial matters, leading to his death.
Timothy Ncube (25) was found dead with a deep cut on his neck and head at his residence in Mahaja Extension, Ntabazinduna, on July 19, 2024. The suspect, Thembelihle Maphosa (22), was arrested on July 21, 2024.
The ZRP is also seeking information to arrest Disco Mubonesi (29) in connection with the murder of his aunt, Mandawani Muponesi (60), in Ndunduma Village, Chipinge, on July 20, 2024.
Mubonesi allegedly set the victim's hut on fire and stabbed her multiple times after accusing her of witchcraft. Muponesi succumbed to her injuries at St. Peters Hospital, Chipinge.
Additionally, Senge Ncube (45) succumbed to injuries sustained in an attack on July 19, 2024, at Mbali Business Centre, Plumtree. He was found with multiple injuries and died upon admission to Plumtree Hospital.
Police appeal and call for community action
The ZRP is appealing for information that could lead to the arrest of suspects involved in these murders. The public is encouraged to contact the National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631 or via WhatsApp at 0712 800 197.
"The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges the public to find peaceful methods of resolving disputes or differences at family and society level," Nyathi said.
"This includes at fora where adults and children will be embarking on various socio-economic activities.
"The church, traditional leaders, and general community are implored to come on board to ensure the public respects the sanctity of human life."
Nyathi stressed that the police will continue to engage communities to promote a culture of law-abiding citizens in all aspects of life.
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