Staff Reporter

Police in Midlands Province have arrested a 33-year-old man for allegedly murdering his brother-in-law during a domestic dispute at Village Kodobo under Chief Nhema in Shurugwi.

Midlands police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the arrest of Last Bazangi of Chief Madyangove, Chibi, in connection with the death of Peter Chigamanye (55) on September 8, 2025.

According to police, Bazangi had been visiting his sister, Patience Joka (37), who lived with her husband Chigamanye. On the night of the incident, Chigamanye reportedly told his wife that Bazangi had taken his cellphone and refused to return it. Moments later, Bazangi stormed into the couple’s bedroom armed with a hoe handle and allegedly struck Chigamanye several times on the head and arm.

Chigamanye collapsed and was rushed to Shurugwi District Hospital where he died upon admission. The suspect fled the scene but was arrested the following day at a bus stop along the Zvishavane–Masvingo highway.

“The suspect will appear in court soon facing charges of murder as defined in Section 47 of the Criminal Law [Codification and Reform] Act, Chapter 9:23,” said Inspector Mahoko.

He urged members of the public to resolve disputes peacefully. “We call upon members of the public to always seek better ways of resolving conflicts and respect the sanctity of life,” he said.

Police recovered the hoe handle used in the attack, which is being held as an exhibit. The body of the deceased is at Shurugwi District Hospital mortuary awaiting post-mortem.