Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
A RENOWNED Mashonaland West tobacco farmer who earned several accolades for his farming achievements was allegedly murdered in a gold ore dispute at a mining syndicate in Sanyati last Friday.
Mr Pardon Mhuri, 42, from Hurungwe District, was allegedly attacked by four members of the same family following a disagreement over the disposal of gold ore, police have said.
The murder has sent shockwaves through the province’s farming community, where Mr Mhuri had established himself as a prominent tobacco producer before diversifying into gold mining.
Police in Mashonaland West have since launched a manhunt for the four suspects in connection with the killing.
Confirming the incident, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi appealed for information that could lead to the arrest of Tinashe Mlalazi, Panganai Mlalazi, Ngonidzashe Mlalazi and Wiseman Mlalazi.
According to police, the suspects allegedly assaulted Mr Mhuri, of Gumberu Village, Chief Njelele, Gokwe, on November 6, 2026, at Mhuri Mining Syndicate in Village 9B, Golden, Sanyati.
Commissioner Nyathi said the attack followed a disagreement over the disposal of gold ore.
“The suspects allegedly assaulted the victim using shovels, iron bars and stones,” Commissioner Nyathi said.
Mr Mhuri sustained severe injuries and was taken to hospital, where he died upon admission.
Police said investigations are underway and appealed to anyone with information on the whereabouts of the four suspects to report to their nearest police station.
