Uzumba Assault Suspects Apprehended as ZRP Cracks Down on Violent Crime
HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police has confirmed the arrest of the second suspect wanted in connection with the brutal assault of a naked woman over infidelity allegations in Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe, as law enforcement agencies intensify efforts to combat violent crime across the country.
In a series of updates, the ZRP provided details on multiple cases ranging from assault and stock theft to fatal road accidents and the recapture of an escaped convict.
Uzumba Assault Case Concludes
The ZRP confirmed that Tambudzai Manjera (24) was arrested on February 20, 2026, in connection with the assault incident that occurred in Uzumba on the same day. Video footage of the incident, in which two women are seen brutally assaulting a naked woman, had circulated widely on social media platforms, sparking public outrage.
On February 24, police announced the arrest of the outstanding suspect.
“The ZRP confirms the arrest of the outstanding suspect, Tanaka Manjera (22),” police said in a statement, bringing the total number of apprehended suspects to two.
Stock Theft Ring Busted in Chinhoyi
In Chinhoyi, detectives arrested Cephas Matsiru (44) and Wayne Chipfunda (41) in connection with two cases of stock theft that occurred on February 18 and 19 at a plot in Chitomborwizi, Chinhoyi, and Madzima Village, Murombedzi, where four cattle were stolen.
“On 20/02/26, detectives acted on received information and arrested the suspects, leading to the recovery of 80 kgs of beef, a cow head and knives,” the ZRP stated.
Investigations established that the suspects slaughtered the stolen cattle before selling the meat at a low price.
Fatal Accidents Prompt Police Appeal
Police are appealing for information that may assist in the investigation of a fatal hit-and-run accident that occurred on February 20 at around 9 PM at the 3-kilometre peg along Chegutu-Chakari Road. A 39-year-old man was killed after being hit by an unknown motorist who did not stop after the accident.
In a separate incident on the same day at around 6:30 PM, a 19-year-old pedestrian was injured after being hit by an unknown motorist at the 33-kilometre peg along Harare-Bulawayo Road in Norton.
Another tragic accident occurred on February 23 at around 5 PM at the 113-kilometre peg along Harare-Nyamapanda Road. Three people were killed while four others were injured when a Toyota Hiace kombi carrying 14 passengers overturned after one of the vehicle’s rear tyres burst.
“The bodies of the victims were taken to Mutoko Hospital mortuary for post-mortem, while the injured were admitted at the same hospital,” police confirmed.
Escaped Convict Recaptured at Airport
In a significant breakthrough, police arrested Mike Cabangani Mathe (38) in connection with a case of escaping from lawful custody in Plumtree. Mathe, who was serving a 20-year jail sentence for rape cases and murder, escaped from Plumtree prison on November 15, 2025, and skipped the country.
“The suspect was apprehended on 24th February 2026 at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, Harare following his deportation from Malawi,” the ZRP announced.
Former Soccer Players Jailed for Drug Dealing
The ZRP reiterated that “crime does not pay” following the arrest, conviction, and sentencing of two former soccer players, Tumai Matsika (also known as Abbas Amidu) and Kudzai Mhlanga (also known as Reuben), for dealing in dangerous drugs (dagga).
The two appeared in court on February 24 for sentencing and were each sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment.
Police Warn Against Fake Statements
The ZRP also moved to dispel false information circulating on social media, advising the public that it had not issued any statement concerning businessman Joachim Chivayo or any member of the Chivayo family.
“The statement circulating on social media is therefore fake and false. It has nothing to do with the ZRP. The law will take its course on individuals or groups spreading false information and committing criminal acts by issuing false statements,” police warned.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police applauded members of the public for their continued cooperation and support in the fight against crime.
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