The roof of Hanyani's hut smoulders on after a suspected arson attack recently
Courage Dutiro
CHIMANIMANI – A house belonging to Daniel Hanyana, a Chimanimani MDC Alliance supporter, was recently reduced to ashes after an unknown person allegedly set it on fire for political reasons, TellZim News has learnt.
When contacted for comment, Manicaland provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Tavhiringwa Kakohwa said he was out of office and had not seen the report when he left.
The suspected arson attack happened in Chimanimani West Ward 5, Nemutenzi Village under Chief Mutambara.
The incident, which happened on Sunday, August 12, has left many local people in shock and afraid as they suspect foul play with political motives.
Norman Hanyana, who is brother to Daniel, said the suspected arson attack happened at around 15:00 hrs when no one was at home.
"The case was reported to Nyanyadzi police station. It was fortunate that nobody was at home when the house was burnt. It is reasonable to suspect that whoever was behind the attack wanted people dead,” said a source.
Another source said footprints of the suspected arsonist were traced behind the hut moving towards a nearby hill.
Other sources said prior to the alleged arson attack, a group of Zanu PF youths had been moving around threatening to burn down the houses of all people linked to the opposition MDC Alliance.
Recently-elected Zanu PF Chimanimani West Ward 5, Ruben Mujee confirmed the incident but could not provide a detailed comment.
“Yes it is true that there is a house that was burnt. I was told about that issue today by the village head,” said Mujee.
He added that another house was burnt on July 30, the day when people went to vote in the harmonised elections.
