Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
Herald Reporter
A 19-year-old Chihota man, under Chief Mudzimurema, is assisting police with investigations following the murder of his mother, Tambudzai Maruza (52).
Nelson Zinyoro was taken into custody on Tuesday after allegedly striking his mother on the head with an axe, resulting in her instant death.
According to police reports, Nelson then undressed the body and, with the assistance of a friend, Gift Nyamadzawo (28), allegedly dragged the victim into a disused toilet in a maize field and secured the entrance.
The two are also accused of burning the victim’s clothes.
Investigators revealed that Nelson later retrieved his mother’s bedroom keys, accessed her belongings, and intended to sell them for cash.
Among the items taken were solar panels, an inverter, two cellphones and scotch-cart wheels. He allegedly began selling these goods to villagers, raising suspicions in the community that ultimately led to his arrest.
Tambudzai Maruza had been reported missing on February 13, with the father joining the search alongside other villagers.
Mashonaland East provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Simon Chazovachii, confirmed the arrest.
“Police arrested two men in connection with the murder in Chihota. The now deceased had been reported missing on February 13, 2026. The suspects are facing murder charges.”
One villager expressed shock at how Nelson operated with a disturbing coldness.
“What shocked us is that he was among those searching for his mother while knowing the truth of his actions.
“We are still in disbelief, especially considering the act of undressing her body. The clothes burned into ash; the keys to her bedroom fell into the pocket of someone consumed by impulse and fear.
“The once-secure signs of a family—solar panels, an inverter, two cellphones, scotch-cart wheels—vanished amidst village gossip.
“As the search for Tambudzai stretched over several days, a father’s anguish turned into a quiet demand for answers. The village watched, and eventually, whispers led to the truth: a murder tied to property disputes, a boy choosing greed over love, and a path resulting in consequences that will not be easily forgotten,” the villager said, in tears.
