Mwenezi Man Arrested for Alleged Machete Murder Over Witchcraft Accusations

MWENEZI – A 26-year-old man from the Chief Negari area in Mwenezi has been arrested after allegedly murdering his uncle with a machete in a brutal attack reportedly triggered by accusations of witchcraft.

Police have identified the suspect as Adwin Mafurere, who is accused of killing his 51-year-old uncle, Simbarashe Mafurere, at around 11 AM at the victim’s homestead. According to witnesses, the deceased was shelling groundnuts with his wife, Esnut Runoza (49), and another individual when the suspect arrived at the homestead, accompanied by a woman.

Sources said Adwin requested groundnuts and sat beside his uncle, who was seated on a wooden stool, before the two engaged in a conversation about family matters.

“Everything seemed normal at first. They were talking and eating together,” said a neighbour who witnessed the incident. “We did not expect it to turn violent so quickly.”

Witnesses allege that after finishing the groundnuts, the suspect suddenly produced a machete and launched a violent attack on his uncle. Simbarashe Mafurere sustained multiple head injuries and deep cuts, reportedly being struck at least six times. He died on the spot due to severe blood loss. The suspect fled immediately after the attack, leaving the victim’s family in shock.

“I screamed for help, but it was too late,” said the deceased’s wife, Esnut Runoza. “He collapsed right there. I never imagined something like this could happen in our family.”

The incident was reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, and the body was taken to Neshuro District Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

Authorities confirmed that the suspect later handed himself over to the police. During initial questioning, he allegedly claimed that his uncle had been “bewitching” him and preventing him from getting married. Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the case, warning against violent responses to personal or cultural beliefs.

“We strongly discourage the use of violence in resolving family or personal disputes. Allegations of witchcraft should never be used as justification to harm others,” said Inspector Dhewa.

He urged members of the public to seek lawful and peaceful ways to resolve conflicts, including engaging community leaders or law enforcement authorities.

Cases involving accusations of witchcraft continue to surface in parts of rural Zimbabwe, often leading to violence or social tensions within families and communities.

Sociologist Dr. Nyasha Chikomba said such incidents highlight the need for increased awareness and conflict resolution mechanisms.

“Belief in witchcraft remains deeply rooted in some communities, but it becomes dangerous when individuals take matters into their own hands instead of seeking mediation or legal recourse,” she said.

Authorities say investigations into the incident are ongoing, and the suspect is expected to appear in court soon.

Mwenezi murder case