Four murders in two weeks: Cops ask for help to catch killers

Whinsley Masara, Chronicle Reporter
POLICE are investigating four cases of murder which occurred countrywide in the past two weeks.

National police spokesperson Senior Assistant Commissioner Charity Charamba said the murder cases occurred in Lupane, Banket, Murewa and Bindura between September 26 and October 4.

Snr Asst Comm Charamba said a 52-year-old man from Lutho village, Chief Mabhikwa, Lupane, died at Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo following an assault.

“A man was assaulted by an accused person on their way from a local bar after a misunderstanding. The accused person fled from the scene after he committed the offence. The deceased was ferried to Mpilo Central Hospital where he died on admission,” she said.

“In the second case, a 32-year-old man from Dondo Farm in Banket was assaulted by three accused persons after a misunderstanding in a bar. The suspects, who are illegal gold panners, fled from the scene soon after they committed the offence.

“The now deceased was referred to Banket Hospital and later transferred to Parirenyatwa Hospital where he died on admission,” she said.
Snr Asst Comm Charamba said a 69-year-old man died in the third incident.

“A 69-year-old man from Chikwati Village under chief Mangwende, Murewa, was found dead under a tree with a deep cut on the forehead.

“The now deceased left his home and went to Jambawo Shopping centre where he met his girlfriend. The two left the shopping centre together at around 11 AM and parted ways at Shamu Primary School, proceeding to their respective homes. The deceased was later found dead by fellow villagers who advised his son,” she said.

Last Tuesday, a woman (22) was found dead in the fields in Chipadze, Bindura at around 1 PM.

Snr Asst Comm Charamba said: “The suspect assaulted the deceased in his (suspect’s) house at Chipindura Park, Bindura, and dumped the body in the fields covered with two empty 50 kg sacks.”

The police spokesperson urged members of the public to resolve disputes amicably without resorting to violence.

“Meanwhile, police are investigating the cases and are appealing for information concerning the whereabouts of the accused persons who committed the murder cases.

People can contact the nearest police station or phone National Complaints Desk on (04) 703631,” said Snr Asst Comm Charamba.

@winnie_masara.