Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
A 38-year-old man succumbed to injuries sustained during a brutal attack in a row over a stolen cellphone in Mbare.
Steven Chatadza was attacked by his neighbour, Hudson Rakandwa, on January 17.
His nephew, Kudakwashe Mautare, who is 43, was also bashed during the attack.
The violence erupted after Rakandwa noticed that his cellphone, which had been left on a charger near an open window, had gone missing during the night.
He suspected Steven and Kudakwashe were involved.
In a fit of rage, Hudson confronted them at Steven’s house, demanding the return of his cellphone.
He forcibly led them back to his home, where the confrontation escalated dramatically.
Armed with an iron bar, Hudson struck both men multiple times, threatening to break their legs if the cellphone was not returned.
Witnesses reported that Steven began bleeding profusely and was rushed to hospital.
Despite the attention he received, his condition worsened.
Hudson has been on the run since the attack.
Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the tragedy.
“He confronted Steven and his nephew at their home and, during the assault, struck Steven with an iron bar before switching to fists, hitting him repeatedly in the face and head.
“After the assault, Hudson released them, but Steven’s condition continued to deteriorate.
“On January 26, 2026, at around 7am, Steven complained of a headache and was taken to hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival,” said Insp Chakanza.
Police are appealing for information to help locate Hudson and they are urging the community to come forward with any details that might assist in this case.
