By Beverly Bizeki
A man from Chibaya Village, under Headmen Makonese in Chivi, is fighting for his life under police guard after surviving a suicide attempt by ingesting poison following the murder of his pregnant girlfriend over infidelity accusations on Valentine’s Day eve in Rujeko B, Masvingo.
Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson, Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa, confirmed the incident, stating that 36-year-old Owen Mataga was admitted to Masvingo Provincial Hospital under police guard.
“I confirm the arrest of one Owen who murdered his girlfriend on February 14 and attempted to take his life afterwards by drinking insecticide at Rujeko B Shopping Centre. He was arrested at Masvingo Provincial Hospital and is in police custody while receiving medical treatment,” said Dhewa.
Allegations suggest that on February 13, Owen spent the day with his now late girlfriend, Faith Cheumbezvo, at her house in Rujeko B. The couple had a misunderstanding as Owen accused Faith of being unfaithful and questioned her pregnancy.
Despite sleeping in different rooms, the two continued exchanging words over the phone. Faith fell asleep amidst the conversation, and Owen, in a fit of rage, strangled her to death in her bedroom. He then returned to sleep in the dining room.
Around 4:00 AM, Owen texted Faith’s sister, Promise Cheumbezvo, notifying her of the incident. He also messaged his father, Vengai Mataga, regarding the same issue before leaving the house for Rujeko B Shopping Centre, where he remained until 8:00 AM.
There, he purchased insecticide, which he consumed, resulting in vomiting. Passersby witnessed his condition and summoned an ambulance, which transported him to Masvingo Provincial Hospital.
Upon arrival, Owen informed hospital staff of his intent to commit suicide following the murder. Police, who were transporting Faith’s body to the mortuary, were informed of the situation and subsequently arrested Owen at the hospital.
