Mutare, once known for its vibrant atmosphere and bustling streets, is now grappling with a wave of violent incidents that have left the city reeling. The latest tragedies, both involving unprovoked attacks, have sent shockwaves through the community and raised serious concerns about the escalating levels of violence.
The first incident, a brutal and senseless act of violence, claimed the life of well-known Sakubva hwindi (tout), Simbarashe Nyambuya. Nyambuya, a familiar figure in the city’s central business district, was walking along Second Street with his girlfriend, Wayne Museta, when he was struck on the forehead with a stone by an unidentified assailant. The attack, seemingly unprovoked, left Nyambuya severely injured.
“Nyambuya, who was in the company of Wayne Museta (25), and walking along Second Street, was hit with a stone on the forehead by an unidentified person at around 8pm. The unidentified assailant fled from the scene,” confirmed Acting Manicaland police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka.
Despite being rushed to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital, Nyambuya’s condition deteriorated after five days, and he tragically succumbed to his injuries at his Sakubva home.
“The following day after being discharged from hospital, and at around 7pm, Nyambuya’s condition deteriorated, and he died at his Sakubva home,” said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka.
Police are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the arrest of the assailant.
“We are appealing to anyone with information leading to the arrest of the unidentified assailant to report to the nearest police station or tip us off through our various hotlines. Investigations are underway, and we will furnish you with finer details once we have apprehended the suspect,” he stated.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident that occurred at Birchenough Bridge, a woman, Melody Mashava, was brutally attacked with a brick after she refused the sexual advances of Wisdom Pfupi. The attack, which took place at a local nightclub, left Mashava hospitalised in a serious condition with a severe head injury.
“Melody Mashava (30), was brutally attacked with a brick by Wisdom Pfupi (23) after she spurned his sexual advances. The incident occurred at midday when Mashava was sitting alone and drinking beer,” explained Assistant Inspector Chinyoka.
According to the police spokesperson, Pfupi’s advances were rejected by Mashava, who reportedly told him he was “too broke” to pay for her services. This enraged Pfupi, leading to the violent attack.
“This enraged Pfupi who physically attacked Mashava. The situation escalated outside the nightclub, where Pfupi grabbed a brick and struck Mashava on the head, causing her to fall unconscious. Pfupi fled from the scene,” said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka.
Pfupi was later apprehended in connection with the assault.
The police are urging the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The community is also called upon to work together to address the root causes of violence and create a safer environment for all.
