By Tavonga Munyanyi
A 55-year-old man from Shurugwi tragically lost his life after being assaulted with a hoe handle during a violent altercation over a cellphone. The incident occurred on September 8, 2025, in Kodobo Village under Chief Nhema.
Midlands Police Spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the arrest of a 33-year-old man in connection with the murder.
“I can confirm the arrest of a 33-year-old man for murdering his brother-in-law following a dispute over a cellphone. The suspect will appear in court soon,” said Inspector Mahoko.
He urged members of the public to seek peaceful ways of resolving disputes and to respect the sanctity of human life.
According to police reports, the suspect, Last Bazangi from Chief Madyangove in Chivi, had been visiting his sister, Patience Joka (37), who lived with her husband, the now-deceased Peter Chigamanye (55). On the evening of September 8, at around 20:00 hours, Joka retired to bed, leaving her husband and brother chatting in the kitchen hut.
A short while later, Chigamanye approached his wife and informed her that Bazangi had seized his cellphone and refused to return it. Moments later, Bazangi entered the couple’s bedroom armed with a hoe handle and allegedly struck Chigamanye multiple blows to the head, leaving him unconscious.
Chigamanye was rushed to Shurugwi District Hospital but died upon admission. The following day, September 9, detectives arrested Bazangi at a bus stop along the Zvishavane–Masvingo road.
Police are continuing investigations and have reiterated the importance of resolving conflicts through dialogue and legal means rather than violence.
