Gokwe Man Arrested for Robbery, Sexual Assault and Linked to Filabusi Murders

A 28-year-old Gokwe man has been arrested for allegedly robbing and sexually assaulting a man in Shurugwi and is also linked to two murder cases in Filabusi, police said (image source)

GOKWE — A 28-year-old man from Bhejani Machohwa Village under Chief Njelele in Gokwe South has been arrested for allegedly robbing and sexually assaulting a 27-year-old man in Shurugwi on January 14, 2026.

Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said the incident occurred near Nash1 Tuckshop, where the suspect and the complainant had been drinking beer together, with the victim reportedly buying the alcohol. When the complainant indicated he was going home, the suspect allegedly pretended to remain behind before following him.

According to police, the suspect, identified as Samson Machona, allegedly tripped the complainant to the ground, robbed him of a cellphone and US$20, assaulted him and committed an act of aggravated indecent assault.

“Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms a case of robbery and aggravated indecent assault in which a 27-year-old man was robbed of his property and sexually assaulted near Nash1 Tuckshop in Shurugwi on January 14, 2026, at around 2300 hours. The suspect, Samson Machona, aged 28, has since been arrested and is in police custody,” Mahoko said.

Police further revealed that Machona had been on the wanted list in connection with two murder cases committed in Filabusi in November 2025, allegedly with an accomplice known only as Thando. He is expected to be transferred to ZRP Filabusi for further investigations into the murder cases.

The victim sustained injuries and is receiving medical treatment at Shurugwi Hospital. The stolen cellphone, valued at US$50, was recovered. Machona is expected to face charges of robbery and aggravated indecent assault, in addition to the pending murder investigations.