Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba-Senior Reporter
Police Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba has described the deaths of two detectives in a shoot-out with armed robbers as a tragedy, warning criminals that the police will not retreat but will pursue justice relentlessly within the confines of the law.
Detective Sergeant Bernard Chimbeke (38) and Detective Constable Casper Antonio McKenzie Chitsowe (42) were shot and killed on Sunday morning in a shoot-out with an armed robber in Ndanga, Zaka. One detective died at the scene, while the second succumbed to his injuries on the way to Masvingo Provincial Hospital.
The suspect, Daniel Munyanyi (50) of Ndemu Village in Ndanga, fled but was arrested in Bikita on Monday afternoon following a massive manhunt.
Addressing mourners at the memorial service held at Mkushi Camp, Commissioner-General Mutamba extended his condolences to the families of the slain officers and to the nation.
“It is with a heavy heart and profound sorrow that I address you as we mourn our dear departed brave officers,” he said. “From the outset, on behalf of the whole Zimbabwe Republic Police family and on my own behalf, I wish to extend our collective grief, pain and condolences to the Chimbeke and Chitsowe families and the people of Zimbabwe for the loss of two brave police detectives in the line of duty. They paid the ultimate price for the sacred covenant of service to humanity.”
He described the detectives as fathers, brothers and sons whose loss reverberates beyond professional bonds into familial and social circles.
“These detectives were not just law enforcement agents; they were fathers, brothers and sons — friends whose loss does not only shake our policing professional bonds, but reverberates through familial ties and social acquaintances,” he said.
Comm-Gen Mutamba paid tribute to the dedication and courage displayed by the two officers, describing them as true ambassadors of law enforcement.
“Theirs was a commitment to safeguard the motherland; ordinary men who chose an extraordinary calling to protect and serve. When lawlessness threatened society, they stood firm as guardians of peace and order. Even when lethal danger loomed in Zaka, their commitment instilled bravery, guided not by fear but by an undying sense of duty and a commitment to the oath to serve.
“We collectively say: Rest in peace. Your sacrifice was not in vain, as your courage confronted danger for the common good.”
The Police Commissioner-General used the occasion to send a strong message to criminals, warning that the police would not be intimidated by violence.
“When criminals choose a path of violence, they do not only endanger police officers but also threaten the whole society. May I, therefore, take this opportunity to send a solemn warning to all those who choose lawlessness: the police will not retreat. This tragedy has galvanised our resolve, unity and teamwork to pursue justice within the confines of the law — and we will conquer.”
He urged fellow officers to draw strength from the loss rather than despair.
“To all police officers, as you mourn your colleagues with a heavy heart soaked in grief, do not let the tears weaken your spirit. Let them strengthen your dedication, reminding you of the need to remain committed to the cause you swore to deliver.”
Commissioner-General Mutamba assured the nation that the police force would emerge stronger and more determined.
Detective Constable Chitsowe will be laid to rest in Mt Darwin, while Detective Sergeant Chimbeke will be buried in Nyanga today. The memorial service was attended by senior police officers and relatives of the deceased.
The suspect, Daniel Munyanyi, remains in police custody and is expected to appear in court facing murder charges.
