Kwekwe Tragedy: Man Axed to Death Over Missing Groceries and Scotch-Cart Fare

REDCLIFF — A 49-year-old man was brutally murdered on Monday night following a violent dispute over missing groceries and a transport fee at Wentworth Farm in Redcliff. The incident, which has shocked the Kwekwe community, highlights a disturbing trend of extreme violence used to resolve minor civil disagreements. The victim, identified as Elias Kavhumbura Chimusito, died on the spot after being struck multiple times with an axe by a transporter he had hired.

The tragedy began when Chimusito engaged Collen Ishmael (27) to transport his groceries from Rutendo to Wentworth Farm using an ox-drawn scotch-cart. Upon arrival at the destination around 8:30 pm, Chimusito checked his supplies and discovered several items were missing. A heated argument ensued when Chimusito refused to pay the agreed-upon transport fee, citing the loss of his property. The situation escalated rapidly into a physical confrontation.

“This angered Ishmael, who took an axe from the scotch cart which he used to strike Chimusito on the head and left shin; he died on the spot,” confirmed Midlands Provincial Police Spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko.

Officers from ZRP Redcliff attended the scene immediately after the incident was reported, leading to Ishmael’s swift arrest. The suspect remains in custody and is expected to appear at the Kwekwe Magistrates Court to face a formal charge of murder. The body of the deceased was transported to the Kwekwe General Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination.

In the wake of the brutal killing, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) issued a stern warning against the use of violence. Inspector Mahoko urged the public to seek mediation rather than resorting to lethal weapons during disputes.

"We urge people to involve community elders or professional counsellors when faced with disputes, rather than resorting to violence and causing the unnecessary loss of life," Mahoko added.

This murder at Wentworth Farm serves as a grim reminder of the volatility in informal transport sectors, where lack of formal contracts and security often lead to tragic outcomes.

Kwekwe murder Redcliff