Online Reporter
Fungai Lupande, Mashonaland Central Bureau
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched an intensive, multi-pronged manhunt for a suspected serial killer linked to a surge of brutal attacks in Guruve, Mashonaland Central, culminating in the horrific murder of five family members on Sunday night.
Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi identified the suspect as Anymore Zvitsva, who is now believed to be connected to multiple murder cases in the district.
It was not immediately clear yesterday if the suspect is related to the deceased.
To catch the suspect, the ZRP is deploying drone technology and specialised teams from the Support Unit, Criminal Investigations Department, Canine Unit, Horse Patrol, and intelligence units in the search.
“The teams are conducting close surveillance in surrounding forests and mountainous areas where the suspect is believed to be hiding,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
The latest atrocity occurred at Plot 9, Ona Farm, where five members of the same family were killed. The deceased have been named as Grace Zvitsva (66), Loice Chiringaushe (37), Takudzwa Kariva (5),
Tatenda Chirenje (2) and Tendai Zvitsva (40).
A neighbour, alerted by unusual noises, discovered the scene. Tendai Zvitsva was found gravely injured and died upon arrival at Guruve District Hospital.
Commissioner Nyathi revealed that the suspect is also linked to recent murders in Zimuna Village under Chief Bepura in the same district, where Pamela Chipangura, Kudzai Chipangura and Tawanda Chipangura were killed. These connections have elevated the manhunt to a critical priority.
The police appeal has been joined by the local community and traditional leaders.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631, WhatsApp 0712800197, or report to the nearest police station.
Far from an isolated incident, these killings are part of a terrifying pattern of machete-related attacks witnessed in the district since October. Residents describe a tense and gloomy atmosphere, with people unsure, which homestead may be targeted next.
Guruve Rural District Council chairperson, Councillor Fabson Mandaza, recounted how the violence began in Ward 16 with non-fatal machete attacks and has since escalated to include rape, multiple murders and targeted assaults on community figures.
“We suspect these people could be living among us. They may be artisanal gold panners or individuals involved in ritual-related killings,” said Clr Mandaza.
He said the violence has since escalated, with recent cases including a grandmother and her two grandchildren who were raped and tied with wire, as well as several fatal attacks.
“We also have a case where a mother and two children were killed, while a third child is still missing. In another incident, a mother was attacked and her 24-year-old son was killed while trying to defend her,” said Clr Mandaza.
According to the council chairperson, most of the murders have been committed using machetes and knives, while in some cases, victims are simply found dead without clear circumstances.
“People are living in fear, including community leaders. We do not know whose homestead will be attacked next,” said Clr Mandaza.
He added that among the victims was a treasurer of a local lending and savings club (mukando), while another attack targeted a businessman at Kachuta Business Centre, who survived only because he was not at home at the time.
