Two women die in Mutare house fire

By Southerton Business Times | Mutare, Zimbabwe | August 10, 2026

TWO women have died after a fire broke out in a room where they had reportedly been locked in Gombakomba Village, Mutare District. The incident occurred on Saturday, August 8, 2026, with police confirming the deaths on Sunday. The victims were aged 18 and 29 and were reportedly living with mental health challenges, according to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP).

ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said police had launched an investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

“The ZRP reports a tragic incident which occurred on 08/08/26 in Gombakomba Village, where two women aged 18 and 29, who were reportedly mentally challenged, died after a fire broke out in the room in which they had been locked,” Nyathi said.

He said the bodies were taken to Victoria Chitepo Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examinations.

“Police are conducting comprehensive investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident,” he said.

Police investigate circumstances

Details surrounding the fire remain limited, including what caused the blaze and why the two women were inside a locked room when the fire started. Police have not indicated whether anyone has been arrested or whether foul play is suspected. The investigation is expected to establish how the fire started, whether the room was locked from inside or outside and whether appropriate safety measures were in place for the two women.

Authorities have urged members of the public to exercise particular care when looking after people who require additional supervision or assistance.

“Meanwhile, the ZRP urges members of the public to exercise caution and ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable persons, particularly those requiring special care and supervision,” Nyathi said.

Calls for protection of vulnerable people

The deaths have highlighted concerns about the safety of people living with mental health conditions, particularly those who depend on families or caregivers for supervision and daily support. Mental health experts and disability rights advocates have repeatedly stressed the importance of dignity, appropriate care and safe living environments for vulnerable people. However, the circumstances of the Gombakomba incident remain subject to the police investigation.

The post-mortem examinations are expected to assist authorities in determining the official cause of death, while investigators establish the circumstances leading up to the fire. Police have appealed for caution as the investigation continues. No further details were immediately available. The two women are presumed to have died in the incident, while any questions of criminal responsibility will depend on the outcome of the investigation and any subsequent court proceedings.

Mutare house fire