Online Reporter
Muchaneta Chimuka
A WOMAN, identified as Tanaka Time, who was reported missing a few weeks ago, was murdered and her body was dumped in a bushy area in Beatrice.
Her body was burnt. Mashonaland East police spokesperson, Inspector Simon Chazovachiyi, said an informant, Teclar Rukwapuro, was walking along a dust road on her way to Rocklands Farm, Beatrice, to fetch firewood when she saw a body lying in the bush.
“She went closer and observed that the body was burnt. On the same day, at around 1000 hours, she reported the matter at ZRP Beatrice and ZRP Beatrice, CID Beatrice and the Forensic Science Directorate from Harare attended the scene,” he said.
The scene is situated in a bushy area about 200 metres from Mupfure River.
“The deceased’s body was seen lying facing upwards, with all body parts burnt by fire.
“Intestines were observed protruding from the stomach.
“The deceased had a partially burnt red T-shirt, a burnt shower cap covering her face and a cloth which appears to have been shoved into her mouth.”
A pair of the deceased’s partially burnt black sandals was found about 10 metres from the body.
“The deceased’s partially burnt Samsung A5 cellphone was found about 2,5 metres from the body.”
Insp Chazovachiyi said no other injuries were noted, and a home- made knife was found about 25 metres from the body.
“Investigations established that the now deceased was reported missing on 20 August 2025 by her husband Tom Jacob (30) of Rocklands New Stands, Beatrice, she went missing from their place of residence on 18 August 2025.”
He said Jacob was summoned to the scene and he positively identified the body of the deceased as that of Tanaka Time, who was his wife.
Tanaka’s body was taken to Chitungwiza Hospital mortuary awaiting post mortem. Investigations are in progress.
“We are appealing to members of the public to assist with information that can lead to the arrest of the accused.”
Mathew Masinge