Kadoma man, 78, accused of killing son in alleged family dispute

HARARE, ZIMBABWE – A 78-year-old man from Kadoma has been charged with murder following the death of his son in a case involving alleged infidelity, violence, and a suspected cover-up. The accused, Benjamin Harry, is alleged to have killed his son, Kudakwashe Harry (30), after being discovered in bed with his daughter-in-law, Evelyn Mashava (22).

According to court allegations, the incident occurred on 6 January when Kudakwashe reportedly walked in on his father and wife. A heated argument followed, during which Benjamin allegedly armed himself with an iron bar and struck his son, killing him. A post-mortem report later confirmed that the victim sustained severe head injuries consistent with blunt force trauma.

Police arrested six additional suspects in connection with the case:

• Mike Hwata (36)

• William Grasham (34)

• Perfect Vembo (18)

• Tongai Mavhurume (18)

• A 16-year-old boy (name withheld)

Authorities say Tongai and the minor are Mashava’s brothers. All seven accused persons have been remanded in custody, facing murder charges under case number Kadoma Rural 27/1/26.

Investigators say one version of events suggests that after the killing, Benjamin allegedly sought help from Mashava’s relatives to conceal the crime. The group is accused of hanging the body from a tree in an attempt to stage a suicide, with reports that a cow was offered as payment for assistance. Neighbours were also allegedly approached to help.

However, alternative accounts have emerged during investigations. Another version suggests that two of the co-accused, reportedly former partners of Mashava, were involved in a confrontation with the deceased that may have contributed to his death. Mashava’s statements further indicate that her brothers may have intervened during the altercation, allegedly attempting to protect her from abuse.

Authorities say investigations are continuing to establish the precise sequence of events and the role of each suspect. Legal experts say the case is likely to hinge on forensic evidence, witness testimony, and the credibility of the differing accounts presented in court.

The matter is expected to return to court as the State prepares its case.

Kadoma murder case Zimbabwe