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Drinking spree ends in attempted murder 

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Drinking spree ends in attempted murder 

By Ndinatsei Mavodza

GUTU – A drinking session at Runyowa Business Centre, Gutu ended in violence after a 37-year-old man was allegedly attacked with an empty beer bottle during an argument.

Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, confirmed the attempted murder case which occurred on February 28, 2026 at around 8PM.

The victim, Tinei Musekiwa (37) was drinking beer with Blessing Machimbidzofa (44) and his father, Gilbert Machimbidzofa, when an argument reportedly broke out between father and son.

According to police, the disagreement escalated with Blessing allegedly pushing his father during the altercation.

Musekiwa reportedly attempted to intervene in an effort to stop the confrontation. 

However, his attempt to mediate between the two triggered a violent reaction from Blessing who picked up an empty beer bottle and struck Musekiwa once on the left side of the abdomen.

Musekiwa sustained a deep cut from the bottle attack and was rushed to Gutu Rural Hospital, where he was admitted in a stable condition.

Machimbidzofa was arrested on March 1.

Assistant Inspector Patinyu urged members of the public to exercise restraint and resolve disputes peacefully.

“We urge members of the public to find peaceful ways of resolving conflict and avoid violence,” he said.

The incident adds to a growing number of alcohol related violent disputes reported at business centres and drinking establishments across the country, where minor disagreements often escalate into serious or fatal confrontations.

In a recent case in Bulawayo’s Emakhandeni suburb, a drinking session between two friends reportedly turned deadly after one allegedly attacked the other following a dispute while walking home.

Authorities continue to encourage responsible drinking and peaceful conflict resolution to prevent avoidable loss of life.

Parents happy with progress during consultation day at Riverton Academy Murinye

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Parents happy with progress during consultation day at Riverton Academy Murinye

By Beverly Bizeki

Parents at Riverton Academy Murinye have expressed satisfaction with their children’s academic progress following a consultation meeting held at the school recently.

The consultation day over the weekend came  weeks after a dispute that briefly disrupted the opening of the first term in January when Chief Murinye, born Ephias Munodawafa, blocked parents and learners from accessing the school over differences with the institution’s owner, Philimon Mutangiri.

The situation was later resolved after the High Court in Masvingo granted an interdict allowing the school to continue operating smoothly.

Parents who spoke to TellZim News during the consultation day said they were impressed with both the academic progress of their children and the stability that has since returned to the school.

“I am excited about my child’s progress since she enrolled here. There is a huge difference in her performance across all subjects compared to when she first came. I am also happy that everything is now normal at the school with no disruptions,” said one parent.

Another parent, who was among those initially blocked by Chief Murinye when attempting to drop off his child on opening day, said he was relieved that the learning environment had stabilised.

“I thought I was going to face the same challenges as last time, but everything is running smoothly. The environment is normal and conducive for learning. I am happy that the differences were resolved and the school is now operating without disturbances,” he said.

An education official who spoke to TellZim News on condition of anonymity said authorities were closely monitoring the situation to ensure that learners’ education is not affected.

“Our priority is to ensure that learners continue with their education without interruptions. We are encouraged that normal learning is taking place and that parents are engaging with the school through consultations,” said the official.

The conflict began at the start of the term when Chief Murinye reportedly blocked the road leading to the newly established school, preventing parents from transporting their children. The traditional leader reportedly claimed he had not authorised the construction of the institution.

Mutangiri, however, maintained that he had obtained all the necessary documentation for the construction of the school, which he said was built on his ancestral land.

The matter was taken to the High Court in Masvingo through an urgent chamber application filed by Mutangiri against Chief Murinye.

In court papers, Mutangiri alleged that the chief had blocked parents from taking their children to school and threatened to disrupt learning by preventing pupils from attending lessons, accusing him of taking the law into his own hands.

In his ruling delivered on February 3, 2026, Justice Zisengwe found that Mutangiri had established sufficient grounds for interim relief, noting that continued interference posed a serious risk to learners’ right to education.

Background aside,determination the motivator

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Background aside,determination the motivator

…Tagarika Primary athletes aim higher


By Emmanuel Chitsika
Located deep down in the dry region in ecological farming region 5 in the red soils of Mufula ranch is a
poorly-resourced Tagarika Primary school. Despite the odds working against the learners, four girls
driven by determination and resolve for success have taken it to another level as they are set to dance
with Masvingo province’s talented athletes at the provincial stage set for Friday the 6th of March 2026.
After brushing aside challenges of fellow competitors at zonal, cluster, district and inter-district levels,
the quartet of Rumbidzai Mulala, Tendai Marufu, Juliana Murashiki and Sharon Machaya are set to
showcase their talents at the provincial stage where the ultimate prize is qualification for the national
finals.
Machaya won in the 800 metres, Marufu in long jump while Mulala and Murashiki partake in the throws
discuss and javelin respectively in the inter-district competitions recently held at Masogwe Primary
school on March 2, 2026.
The remotely- located school in Mwenezi East constituency has an enrolment if slightly above five
hundred learners hailing from the community whose livelihoods is primarily hinged on small grains
production and some few cash crops like water melons,sesame and cotton for some few farmers as well
as communal cattle production.
This is not the first time Tagarika have raised the flag of Mwenezi on the sporting front as Tagarika girls
volleyball team mentored by Chikoti Hapson has twice played at the national finals in succession (2024
and 2025).
Mwenezi is arguably full of untapped talent in various sporting disciplines and only fate awaits Tagarika
athletics coach Matsilele Revesai and her charges as they join the district team to the provincial finals.

Stolen vehicle found at cemetery

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Stolen vehicle found at cemetery

By Karen Sibanda

A night out at a popular Masvingo nightspot ended in shock for a 32-year-old Rujeko man after his vehicle was stolen only to be found hours later abandoned at Runyararo West Cemetery.

Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, confirmed the incident, which occurred in the early hours of February 22, 2026 and urged members of the public to ensure that they park their vehicles in well-lit areas during the night.

“We have received a report of theft of a motor vehicle after the complainant realized that his Honda Fit had been stolen from outside a popular night spot, Masvingo. Investigations were made, leading to the recovery of the vehicle at Runyararo West Cemetery.

“We urge members of the public to avoid leaving vehicles unattended for extended periods, especially during the night. Motorists should ensure their vehicles are properly secured and, where possible, parked in well-lit and guarded areas. ,” said Assistant Inspector Patinyu.

Circumstances are that the complainant, Tapiwanashe Mapetese of Rujeko A, had parked his white Honda Fit (old shape) outside the night spot at around 10pm on February 21 before going inside for drinks.

Mapetese briefly returned to the vehicle at around 1:30am to collect a jacket. After locking the car, he went back into the bar. However, at approximately 3:00am, when he intended to drive home, the vehicle was nowhere to be found.

The vehicle, valued at approximately US$5,000, was recovered abandoned. No arrests had been made by time of writing and investigations into the theft were ongoing.

Zaka Zanu PF councillor acquitted in ‘Mnangagwa must go’ WhatsApp case

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Zaka Zanu PF councillor acquitted in ‘Mnangagwa must go’ WhatsApp case

By Brighton Chiseva
A Zanu PF councillor who was dragged to court for Incitement to commit public violence as
defined in section 187(1) Criminal law (Codification and Reform) Act as read with section
36(1)(a) of the Criminal Law (Codificationand Reform) Act after fowarding a WhatsApp
message calling for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to step down has been acquitted
Zaka Ward 24 councillor Zivanai Zvada, 44, walked free from the Zaka Magistrates Court on
February 4 after Magistrate Grace Tupiri upheld an application for discharge at the close of the
prosecution case, ruling that evidence presented by three state witnesses was “manifestly
unreliable” to secure a conviction.
The acquittal brings to a close the legal saga that began on April 1 2025 when Zvada was
arrested for forwarding a message that read: “M31 Movement Munhu wese mu road Emmerson
Mnangagwa has to go” in a WhatsApp group called “Ward 24 Development Agenda” where he
is also an admin.
Zvada is not only a Zanu PF councillor but also a constituency coordinator for Zaka South MP
Clemence Chiduwa, placing him firmly within the party’s structure even as he faced charges of
undermining the President.
The message, originally posted on X by activist Never Masweraseyi, was forwarded by Zvada on
March 31 2025 the same day opposition figures had called for demonstrations. Sources, the post
remained in the group for several hours until Zvada deleted it that evening after being warned by
fellow members.
The group was originally created by Zaka Rural District Council CEO David Majaura as a
development forum, but Zvada took over administration after his election as councilor.
Majaura, who reportedly reported Zvada to the police, has had a tense relationship with the
councillor, who was part of efforts to remove the CEO from his position.
During the trial, which commenced on January 29 2026, prosecutors alleged that Zvada’s actions
were meant to “persuade or induce the general public to disturb the peace” and incite violence
against the President. His Samsung phone was seized and sent for forensic analysis at the police
Cyber Laboratory.
Zvada spent over two weeks in detention after being denied bail at the magistrate’s court, which
deemed him a threat to public order. He was only freed on April 17 after the Masvingo High
Court granted him bail.
His lawyer, Frank Chirairo of the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, successfully argued
that the state had failed to prove Zvada sent the message.

Magistrate Tupiri agreed, noting that witnesses including Zanu PF Ward 24 Youth Chairperson
Cuthbert Chiguvi, investigating Officer Archbald Muyambi, and digital forensic analyst Nyasha
Mandebvu had made “bold assertions” without providing evidence a reasonable

Infidelity row leaves couple dead in Ngundu

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Infidelity row leaves couple dead in Ngundu

By Ndinatsei Mavodza
CHIVI – A domestic dispute over alleged infidelity ended in a double tragedy after a 33-
year-old woman from Nyahombe New Stands in Ngundu died from complications of a bite
wound before her husband was later found hanging near their home on the same day.
Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu
confirmed the death of Monica Mbathane and her husband Donald Mataga (33) and
condemned domestic violence, saying misunderstandings in relationships should not escalate
into physical confrontations.
“I confirm the death of Mbathane and Mataga who both died on February 20 at different
intervals after a dispute on February 13, 2026 which ended up in violence.
“We condemn domestic violence in the strongest terms. Disputes between couples should
always be solved peacefully and amicably,” said Ass Insp Patinyu.
Assistant Inspector Patinyu also urged members of the public to seek help when facing
problems rather than taking their own life.
“Suicide is never an option. Challenges are part of life and can be addressed through dialogue
and support systems. We encourage people to speak out and seek help instead of suffering in
silence,” he said.
Circumstances are that the couple allegedly had a misunderstanding at their home on
February 13 at around 10PM over suspected infidelity.
The dispute turned physical, with Mbathane reportedly grabbing Mataga’s private parts. In an
attempt to free himself, Mataga bit Mbathane’s right arm causing a deep wound.
Mbathane did not seek medical attention immediately after the incident.
On February 19, she reportedly began experiencing severe complications as her arm started to
rot and she became seriously ill.
Mbathane was taken to Chivi District Hospital where she was admitted in a critical condition.
On February 20 at around 9AM, she was transferred to Masvingo Provincial Hospital and
died on the way along Tokwe-Mandamabwe road.
Her body was taken back to Chivi District Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Later that same day at around 4PM, Mataga’s body was discovered hanging from a tree
branch on a mountain approximately 200 metres from their home.

Masvingo filmmaker makes history with AI-generated romantic film

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Masvingo filmmaker makes history with AI-generated romantic film

By Tatiana Mhararira

A Masvingo filmmaker is rewriting the rules of cinema after releasing what is believed to be one of Zimbabwe’s first artificial intelligence-driven films, blending technology with timeless storytelling. 

The film, My Valentine Surprise, directed by Arthur Muoni and released on February 14, 2026, is not just a romantic drama it is a bold experiment in how AI can shape the future of local filmmaking.

The romantic film not only entertains but also showcases the potential of technology in enhancing storytelling.

Speaking to TellZim News Muoni said the film was of great importance as it had much significance to the audience who watch it.

“The message about the film is that love is proven in difficult seasons, not easy ones. Miscarriages are not a woman’s failure they are a painful medical and emotional experience that requires support, patience, and unity. A true partner stands beside you in grief, not only in celebration.

“Another lesson from the film is about self-worth. No one deserves to be abandoned because of circumstances beyond their control. If someone walks away during your hardest moment, it reveals their character not your value,” said Muoni.

He also said the film had some lessons to be drawn from it.

“My valentine surprise also teaches the audience that marriage is about commitment, especially during loss. Compassion matters more than pride. Sometimes heartbreak exposes who was never truly ready to love unconditionally. Most important of all the right person will stay, fight, and heal with you not replace you when life gets hard,” he said.

Muoni said his inspiration to explore AI in film making wa s derived from his passion of storytelling especially in the digital age where artificial intelligence is being used in different sectors.

“I have always been passionate about storytelling, but I’m equally fascinated by innovation. The rapid growth of artificial intelligence opened up new creative possibilities that I couldn’t ignore. I saw AI not as a replacement for human creativity, but as a powerful tool to enhance it.

“When l received the script of Valentine Surprise, I wanted to create a romantic comedy that felt fresh, modern, and relatable especially to a younger, digitally connected audience. AI became part of the creative process from the early stages of concept development, helping refine ideas and visualize scenes before production even began,” said Muoni.

He also stated that AI enriched some parts of the film production and how it took part in character development which influenced the final outcome.

“AI enhanced several aspects of the production. During storytelling, it helped with brainstorming plot variations, tightening dialogue, and exploring different character arcs. In production, AI tools supported tasks like script polishing, visual concept generation, editing assistance, and even marketing strategy. For viewers, the result was a more polished and immersive experience. AI helped us streamline workflows, which meant we could focus more on emotional depth, pacing, and overall quality.

“AI contributed ideas and alternative perspectives during the writing process, but the emotional core of the story remained deeply human. Romantic comedies rely on authenticity, chemistry, and cultural nuance especially within a Zimbabwean context.AI helped explore ‘what if’ scenarios and refine dialogue, but the characters’ personalities, motivations, and emotional journeys were shaped by lived experiences and cultural understanding,” he said.

Muoni also said he faced a number of challenges and how he overcame the challenges he faced.

“One of the biggest challenges was learning how to balance AI assistance with human creativity. At first, it was tempting to rely heavily on the technology, but I quickly realized that AI works best as a collaborator, not a decision-maker.

“There were also technical limitations and a learning curve. I overcame these by experimenting, refining prompts, and continuously aligning the output with my creative vision. Ultimately, the key was staying in control of the story while using AI as a supportive tool,” said Muoni.

Looking ahead, Muoni envisions a flourishing film industry in Masvingo and Zimbabwe, shaped significantly by AI.

“I believe AI has the potential to democratize filmmaking in Zimbabwe. It can lower production costs, improve access to high-quality tools, and empower young filmmakers who may not have large budgets.

“If used responsibly, AI can help Zimbabwean storytellers compete globally while still telling authentic local stories. It’s not about replacing talent it’s about amplifying it,” he added.

The film was written by Nyaradzo Mutsauri who also wrote another film called Mugabe and   is currently in Canada. My Valentine surprise is available on YouTube Nyari tales.

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Topora night crash claims one

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Topora night crash claims one

 
 By Tadiwa Shunje

MASVINGO – A 55-year-old man from Mutirikwi died after he was run over while allegedly sleeping on a narrow road near Topora Business Centre on February 20, 2026.

Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, confirmed that the deceased, Lovemore Vhoko of Zinwa Dam Hall, Lake Mutirikwi, had reportedly been drinking beer at Topora Business Centre earlier that evening.

“We confirm the death of Vhoko from Zinwa Dam Hall,Lake Mutirikwi who was crashed by a motor vehicle while sleeping on the road. We urge members of the public to drink responsibly and avoid sitting or sleeping on roads, particularly at night. Motorists have also should exercise extreme caution and remain alert when driving, especially on narrow and poorly lit roads,” said Ass Insp Patinyu.

Vhoko left for home at around 10:30 PM. His residence is approximately seven kilometres from the business centre and allegedly fell asleep on the roadway as he walked home. 

At around 8:00 pm, Ernest Murumbi (62) of Chief Murinye, Masvingo, was driving along the same narrow stretch of road when he unknowingly ran over him.

Murumbi reportedly did not realise that he had struck a person and continued with his journey.

The following morning, at approximately 5:00 am  on February 21, Vhoko’s body was discovered lying on the road by a fellow worker from Zinwa Mutirikwi Dam Hall, who immediately alerted authorities.

Police attended the scene and transported the body to Masvingo Provincial Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

Vhoko sustained an open cut on the left side of the head and cheek. 

After reports of the incident began circulating on social media, Murumbi surrendered himself to the police and has since been charged with culpable homicide.

Man hangs self after wife threatens to report domestic violence

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Man hangs self after wife threatens to report domestic violence

By Tadiwa Shunje

A 25-year-old man from Chivi allegedly took his own life on February 14, after reportedly fearing he would be reported to police following a domestic violence dispute with his wife.

Masvingo Acting Provincial Police Spokesperson Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu confirmed the death of George Mutizwa who stayed under Headman Handizvihwi in Chivi following an altercation with his wife(name withheld) after which she threatened to report to the police. 

Assistant Inspector Patinyu expressed concern over domestic disputes ending tragically, urging couples to seek peaceful and lawful ways of resolving conflicts.

“We confirm the death of Mutizwa who was found hanging in a tree after his wife allegedly threatened to report a domestic dispute to the police. We urge members of the public to utilise community leaders, family elders, churches and professional counselling services to mediate in conflicts before they escalate. The public should also be reminded that gender-based violence remains a criminal offence and those found guilty face arrest and prosecution,” said Ass Insp Patinyu.

Allegations are that the couple had an argument on the evening of February 13,  over hygiene issues, with the dispute escalating. 

Mutiziwa allegedly assaulted his wife during the altercation.

The following morning, the wife reportedly left home intending to report the matter to police as a domestic violence case, leaving Mutiziwa alone at the homestead.

A few hours later, at around 1320hours residents discovered Mutiziwa’s body hanging from a Mukwakwa tree branch near his home and alerted authorities the police.

Police officers attended the scene, and no foul play is suspected. The body was taken to the Chivi District mortuary for post-mortem examinations as investigations continue.

Chiredzi 9-year-old electrocuted while  picking wild fruits

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Chiredzi 9-year-old electrocuted while  picking wild fruits

By Karen Sibanda

A tragic accident has shaken a community in Chiredzi after a nine-year-old boy was electrocuted while picking wild fruits on February 16, 2025 at Shilo Compound in Mukwasine.

Masvingo Acting Provincial Police Spokesperson Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu confirmed the death of Tatenda Dendere and urged communities to remain vigilant around exposed electrical infrastructure as well as report hanging or damaged cables to relevant authorities before more lives are lost.

“We confirm receiving a report of nine-year-old Dendere who died in Mkwasine after he touched a live electric wire and was electrocuted. We advise parents and guardians of children to caution young ones against playing or climbing trees near electrical wires. Communities should promptly report any loose or hanging cables to the relevant authorities to prevent such incidents,” said Ass Insp Patinyu.

It is reported that Dendere was with a 10-year-old friend searching for wild fruits when they passed through a church yard where a loose electrical cable was hanging through a mango tree. 

Dendere allegedly touched the live wire and was electrocuted, collapsing instantly. His friend ran to alert nearby residents.

No visible injuries were observed on the body, and the remains were taken to Chiredzi District Hospital for post-mortem examination.

Police have since warnedInvestigations into the incident are ongoing, as calls grow for improved maintenance of electrical installations in residential areas to prevent similar tragedies.

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