Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Mutare Bureau
Chipinge police are investigating two separate violent assault cases that occurred last week, which led to the death of a man and left another critically injured.
Both matters were reported at ZRP Chisumbanje, with police confirming that the accused in one of the cases is at large and has since been declared a fugitive from justice, while the other has been arrested and is assisting the police with investigations.
Acting Manicaland police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, confirmed the cases, warning the public against violent behaviour.
“I confirm the death of Bernard Mtetwa (23), of Mudenga Village, Chief Musikavanhu, after being stabbed twice in the pelvis following an argument with an unknown assailant,” he said.
“The incident occurred on the night of December 21, 2025, at Rimai Business Centre, where Mtetwa was drinking beer at Gavhumende Bottle Store.
“Mtetwa left his cell phone with a bar attendant, Evidence Tarupiwato, charging while he enjoyed his booze. While inside, Mtetwa and the accused got into a heated argument over an unknown issue. They were dragged outside, where the accused withdrew a knife and stabbed Mtetwa twice.
“The accused’s friend also sustained stab wounds to the thigh while trying to intervene and restrain him. After the attack, the assailant and his companion vanished into the darkness, taking the stab knife with them.
Mtetwa, who was severely injured, said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka managed to stagger for about 80 metres to an unfinished building, where he collapsed.
“He was found the next morning by a passerby, Donemore Simango, who heard his calls for help and immediately called for some assistance,” he said.
“Mtetwa was lying on his back, very weak and bleeding heavily. His brother, Luke Mtetwa, was advised and a report was made at the police station. Mtetwa was taken to St Peter’s Mission Hospital and was pronounced dead on arrival.”
Police recovered a cellphone belonging to the accused’s friend, but the murder weapon remains missing.
Meanwhile, in a different incident, another Chipinge man was almost murdered after he found a man trying to open his door in Mukhuwu village, Chief Musikavanhu.
Assist Insp Chinyoka said on December 22, 2025, at around 11 pm, Garikai Chamunoita (39), returned home from South Africa when he encountered 19-year-old Descent Mahungana, of Muzokomba Village, Chief Chamutsa, in Buhera, at his homestead. A misunderstanding reportedly escalated, and Mahungana allegedly pulled out an okapi knife and stabbed Chamunoita multiple times on the left jaw, shoulder, and twice on the left hand. Police were alerted by Chamunoita’s father, Joshua Chamunoita, and promptly arrested Mahungana.
The knife was recovered, and Chamunoita was treated at St Peter’s Mission Hospital, with his condition reported as stable.
Commenting on the two incidents, Assist Insp Chinyoka urged the public to exercise caution.
“Carrying and using knives is illegal and can have deadly consequences. Any grievances should be reported to the police instead of taking the law into your own hands,” he said, further advising communities to remain vigilant, especially during the festive season when alcohol consumption and travel increase.
“Our officers are working tirelessly to ensure suspects are apprehended, but we also call on residents to act responsibly and avoid putting themselves or others at risk.”
He reiterated the dangers of alcohol-fuelled disputes.
“This case shows how quickly disagreements can escalate into fatal violence. Police are urging communities to avoid public confrontations and to report any individuals carrying weapons,” he said.
He said investigations continue into both the murder of Mtetwa and the attempted murder of Chamunoita.
He appealed to anyone with information regarding the unknown suspect in the Bernard Mtetwa case to come forward.
“These incidents are serious and underline the need for people to resolve conflicts peacefully. Murder and attempted murder are criminal offences, and the law will take its course. We urge members of the public to report any suspicious behaviour immediately,” he said.
