A prominent Sanyati businessman, Thulani Ncube (42), is in police custody following the alleged murder of his wife, Nyengeterai Chakauya (42), and his cousin, Canaan Shumba.
The double murder occurred on Thursday, 16 January 2025, at Nyimo Business Centre in Sanyati, Mashonaland West Province.
Police confirmed the details in a statement: “Police in Sanyati arrested a business person, Thulani Ncube (42) in connection with two counts of murder which occurred on 16/01/25 at Nyimo Business Centre, Sanyati.
“The suspect shot dead his wife, Nyengeterai Chakauya (42) and cousin, Canaan Shumba with a Star Pistol after an argument. Investigations by the Police revealed that the suspect had a longstanding dispute with his wife over infidelity issues,” the police memo reads.
The incident highlights the tragic consequences that can arise from unresolved marital conflict and underscores the importance of seeking help when facing relationship challenges. Experts advise against making crucial decisions while consumed by anger.
Anger management courses consistently teach the importance of allowing emotions to subside before addressing difficult situations. Rushing into action while angry often leads to regrettable outcomes, as seen in this devastating case
. Men facing suspected infidelity should seek counsel from trusted friends, family members, or professionals, rather than resorting to violence. Open communication and seeking professional help are crucial steps in navigating such sensitive issues.
Mapanga described the events: “A relative had passed away, and we were all at the funeral. I told my wife I would spend the night there, and she said she would stay home. But something didn’t feel right, and I decided to go home to check on her later that night. To my shock, I found my wife and my nephew together in my kitchen.”
Overwhelmed by anger, Mapanga initially reacted by seizing Samaringa’s clothes, forcing him to flee naked. However, he later chose to calm down and address the situation in the morning, only to discover his wife had taken her own life.
“I was too angry to question my wife, so I just stood there, seething with anger, unsure of what to do. I decided to calm down and deal with the situation the following morning. However, when I woke up, my wife had disappeared. We searched for her and tragically discovered that she had taken poison, and died in a nearby bush. I believe she was overwhelmed by shame and could not face the consequences,” Mapanga recounted.
Adding to Mapanga’s grief, Samaringa subsequently spread rumours that Mapanga’s children were actually his. Mapanga is now seeking US$6,000 in compensation from Samaringa, a request that Samaringa has refused, leading to the ongoing legal dispute. Samaringa admitted to the affair but denied responsibility for Mahidhu’s death and the claims of paternity.
He expressed remorse for his actions, stating: “I disrespected my uncle by sleeping with his wife, and I regret it.” He also claimed the encounter was their first lula lula session, something that is hard to believe considering that they had the audacity to enjoy the forbidden fruit at a funeral.