Redcliff Man Arrested for Murder After Dispute Over Missing Groceries

MIDLANDS – A 27-year-old Redcliff man who operates a scotch cart courier service has been arrested and charged with murder following a fatal dispute with a client over missing groceries, in a case that has shocked the local community. Collen Ishmael (27) is accused of killing his client, Elias Kavhumbura Chimusito (49), during an argument at the victim’s homestead on Monday evening. Midlands police spokesperson Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the incident, which occurred at around 8 pm in Redcliff, a mining town near Kwekwe.

According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Chimusito had hired Ishmael to transport groceries from Rutendo suburb to Wentworth Farm using a scotch cart, an increasingly common low-cost transport option in peri-urban Zimbabwe. Police say Ishmael arrived at the destination at approximately 8:30 pm, but tensions quickly escalated after the complainant allegedly discovered that some groceries were missing from the consignment.

Chimusito reportedly refused to pay for the service, accusing the courier of failing to deliver all the goods, which sparked a heated confrontation.

“Ishmael was infuriated and he allegedly grabbed an axe from the scotch cart and struck Chimusito on the head and left shin. Chimusito died on the spot,” Mahoko said.

Officers from ZRP Redcliff attended the scene shortly after the incident and arrested Ishmael. The victim’s body was transported to Kwekwe General Hospital mortuary, where a postmortem examination is expected to be conducted. Residents in the area described the incident as tragic and avoidable.

“It’s shocking that a disagreement over groceries could end in death. These are people who knew each other,” said a neighbour who declined to be named.

The incident highlights a worrying trend of violent disputes arising from everyday economic activities, particularly in communities where informal transport services such as scotch carts play a critical role.

Social commentator and Midlands-based community development expert, Tendai Moyo, said economic pressures are increasingly fuelling conflict.

“When livelihoods are fragile, even small disagreements can quickly spiral out of control. There is a need for conflict resolution awareness at community level,” Moyo said.

Police have urged members of the public to resolve disputes amicably and avoid resorting to violence.

“We have lost a life in circumstances where dialogue should have been the best route in finding a solution. We implore the public to engage elders and counsellors whenever they have differences,” Mahoko said.

The suspect is expected to appear in court soon, facing a murder charge under Zimbabwean law. Authorities continue to emphasise the importance of peaceful conflict resolution as communities grapple with rising cases of violence linked to everyday disputes.

Redcliff murder case