Gweru Trio Arrested for Alleged Revenge Killing Over Slaughtered Chickens

Three villagers from Mahalape Compound in Lower Gweru have been arrested over a suspected murder (image source)

Three villagers from Mahalape Compound in Lower Gweru have been arrested in connection with the suspected murder of two children, allegedly as revenge for a dispute over slaughtered chickens. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the arrests following new evidence in a case initially treated as a sudden death by fire.

The suspects — Chiedza Siziba, James Mativenga, and Abel (surname not released) — were apprehended in Sherwood, Kwekwe, after fleeing the scene of the August 19 incident. Police say the trio had longstanding grievances with the children’s parents, Munyaradzi Chizhanga and his wife, over poultry ownership.

“Fresh evidence has led to the arrest of three suspects linked to the tragic deaths of two minors,” said Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko.

On the night of August 19, 13-year-old Everjoy Mangena and five-year-old Natasha Kanyama were sleeping in their hut while their parents occupied a separate room. Around midnight, the parents were awakened by the children’s cries and discovered their hut engulfed in flames.

Despite efforts by neighbors to extinguish the fire, both children were burnt beyond recognition. Their remains were taken to Gweru Provincial Hospital Mortuary for post-mortem examination.

“The scene was attended by ZRP Gweru Rural, and the case was initially treated as sudden death,” Mahoko added.

Investigators later received information suggesting the fire was deliberately set as retaliation for a disagreement involving the slaughter of chickens. The suspects allegedly harbored resentment toward the children’s parents, leading to the fatal act.

Police are now pursuing murder charges and gathering forensic evidence to support prosecution. While disputes over livestock are common in Zimbabwe’s rural communities, this case has shocked the nation due to its brutality and the age of the victims. Experts warn that unresolved community tensions can escalate into violence when left unchecked.

“This tragedy underscores the need for conflict resolution mechanisms in rural compounds,” said criminologist Dr. Tafadzwa Moyo.

The suspects are expected to appear in court within the week. Police have urged anyone with additional information to come forward. The community remains in mourning, with calls for justice and improved security measures.