Online Reporter
Ethel Ncube
VILLAGERS in Binduko, Zaka are scratching their heads and asking themselves what on earth possessed two grown men to turn a peaceful ZCC service into an action movie gone wrong.
Sam Togara (33) is now behind bars after allegedly knocking out his neighbour Emmanuel Shanganai (23) with a log. Yes, a whole log… during church… while people were singing and clapping.
The two, who lived in the same area and were meant to be “brothers in Christ”, apparently clashed over an issue no one can quite explain. Some church members say the tension had been brewing “like isitshwala on high heat”, and 9 November 2025 was simply the day the pot exploded.
Witnesses said a heated exchange broke out during the service. Before anyone could shout “amen”, Sam reportedly grabbed a log and gave Emmanuel what can only be described as a holy wallop. Emmanuel collapsed instantly, bringing the entire service to a standstill.
Confused congregants froze for a moment, unsure whether to continue singing, pray, or run for the hills.
Police were called immediately, but when they arrived Emmanuel had already died. His body was taken to Ndanga Hospital for a post-mortem.
Masvingo police spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident and sounded like a tired parent addressing naughty children.
“We have arrested Sam Togara who is suspected of killing Emmanuel Shanganai during a church service.
He is assisting with investigations,” said Insp Dhewa.
Then came the lecture everyone knew was coming.
“We urge members of the public to stop solving their problems through violence and to seek help from a third party. Do not turn prayer meetings into boxing matches,” he added.
Colletta Dube