President condemns ritual murders

Herald Reporters

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has warned those engaging in ritual murders, sexual violence and other heinous forms of abuse that they will face the full wrath of the law, as such crimes have no place in Zimbabwe.

The call comes at a time when the country is witnessing a worrying increase in ritual murders and sexual violence.

Speaking at the Zanu PF Politburo meeting in Harare yesterday, President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe is a nation where the sanctity of life is honoured.

“I am disheartened with the sad and unfortunate cases of criminality often claiming the lives of young people and children, including alleged ritual murders, sexual violence and abuse among others.

“We are a nation where the sanctity of life is honoured, celebrated and preciously safeguarded,” said President Mnangagwa.

He said those who have a propensity to take advantage of the peaceful national character have no place in the country.

“Tiri nyika ine rugare nerunyararo,’’ the President said.

This comes at a time when the country is still reeling from the death of three children who were found stashed in the boot of an abandoned vehicle in Harare’s Kuwadzana suburb.

In Masvingo, police have launched a manhunt for Morgen Gwazira (33) from Machingambi village in Chief Mugabe’s area. He is alleged to have killed his 34-year-old wife, Liliosa Gwenhamo, on Monday morning by striking her with an axe and then disposing of her body by throwing it into a bonfire at their matrimonial home.

In a separate case, Bindura police are investigating the death of Garikayi Junior Kamwendo (27), whose remains were discovered in a bushy area in an advanced state of decomposition. The body was mutilated, with the head and private organs missing. All investigations are active as police work to apprehend the suspects and determine the motives behind these crimes.