Online Reporter
Peter Matika, Zimpapers Writer
POLICE in Bulawayo have released closed-circuit television (CCTV) images of suspects wanted in connection with a gruesome double murder at Chigumira Shopping Centre in Luveve, as investigations intensify.
Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele confirmed that two men were fatally stabbed in separate but related incidents at the shopping complex in October, and appealed for public assistance.
The victims were identified as Bishop Ncube (46) of Lobengula West and Malachi Ndlovu (40) of Luveve.
Inspector Msebele said the first incident occurred on October 15 at around 2AM when a 39-year-old man from Luveve was socialising with friends at Chigumira Shopping Centre.
“He was approached by an unknown woman who informed him that there was a fight involving the now deceased and seven unknown male adults who appeared to be illegal miners,” she said.
The man rushed to the scene and found Bishop Ncube lying inside a bar, bleeding profusely with a stab wound on the forehead and a deep cut on the left thigh. Ncube was immediately ferried to Mpilo Central Hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival. A police report was subsequently filed.
Officers who attended the scene noticed bloodstains inside the bar and followed a trail of blood leading outside the shopping complex.
“A trail of blood was followed, leading to the discovery of another dead body, Malachi Ndlovu, a male adult aged 40 years of Luveve, who was lying with deep stab wounds,” said Inspector Msebele.
Ndlovu’s body was also taken to Mpilo Central Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
During investigations, detectives established that the suspects involved in the killings were captured on CCTV cameras installed at the shopping centre.
“During the investigation, it was established that the accused persons were captured on CCTV committing the offence. We are appealing to members of the public who might identify the suspects captured on camera to report to any nearest police station,” said Inspector Msebele.
She urged anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects to contact CID Homicide Bulawayo on 0290-71568 or 0290-77523, or Detective Assistant Inspector Nkomo on 0712380243.
Inspector Msebele said the release of the CCTV images forms part of ongoing efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore safety in the Luveve community.
