Staff Reporter

Police in Zhombe, Kwekwe District, have apprehended a 47-year-old man believed to be involved in the brutal murder of a teacher from Rio Tinto Zhombe High School last month.

Thabani Dube (47) was reportedly captured by police in Zhombe, following intensive investigations since the incident occurred in January.

During the arrest, police were forced to fire shots, injuring Dube in his right leg as he attempted to flee upon being cornered in Mavule.

Dube is alleged to be part of a gang comprising four members, suspected of being involved in various deaths and incidents of stock theft in and around Zhombe. Three other members of the gang managed to evade capture and remain at large.

He has since appeared in court before Kwekwe Magistrate Itai Kagwere, facing charges of murder. Dube was not asked to enter a plea and has been remanded in custody until 22 February 2024.

The body of the deceased teacher, Fanuel Mwale, was discovered at Joel Business Centre, unclothed, with his face mutilated and missing eyes, ears, nose, and upper lip.

The shocking nature of the incident led the community to speculate that it may have been a ritualistic murder, sending shockwaves throughout the area.