Maphisa machete murder: Three suspects arrested

Bongani Ndlovu, Deputy Echo Editor

THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of three men in connection with a brutal attack that resulted in the death of a good Samaritan and injuries to two other people in Maphisa, Matabeleland South province.

The three, Nkosana Mangena (29), Tapiwa Mpofu (29) and Mthabisi Ndlovu (32) reportedly committed the crime at J. Mafuyana Township on June 29.

According to National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the suspects allegedly struck Chelesani Moyo (32) with a machete while he was helping to push a couple’s vehicle, which had broken down.

Commissioner Nyathi said when the couple intervened, the suspects turned on them and damaged the car. They reportedly sustained injuries, including the loss of a fingertip.

“The suspects struck Mr Moyo on the head with a machete… the two complainants sustained varying injuries and the little finger of one complainant was cut off,” Commissioner Nyathi said, expressing concern over the growing wave of machete‑related violence.

Commissioner Nyathi said on June 30 police in Maphisa received information linking Mangena to the crime.
“He was arrested that same day at Nyika Compound, Maphisa. Through interrogation, Mangena implicated Mpofu and Ndlovu, who were subsequently arrested,” he said.

Commissioner Nyathi praised the public’s cooperation: “The ZRP applauds the citizens for supplying information which led to the arrest of the suspects,” and urged continued vigilance.

He urged anyone with information on criminal activities to contact the police at (0242) 703631 or WhatsApp 0712 800 197.