Village head on the run after alleged stabbings in Zaka land dispute

Land at the centre of local disputes

ZAKA — Police are seeking a village head under Chief Ndanga in Zaka after allegedly stabbing three people in a series of attacks tied to ongoing land disputes, authorities confirmed on Monday.

Police said George Muvavi, the village head of Mukambwe Village, and his brother Tinashe Muvavi are accused of attacking two members of a neighbouring community and a local teacher on 14 February 2026. One suspect remains at large while one was detained following the incidents, which police have linked to allegations that the Muvavi family sold land belonging to neighbouring villages.

Incident details

Masvingo Provincial deputy police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu said the first incident occurred at Chipato Shopping Centre, where Tinashe allegedly stabbed a 16‑year‑old boy in the hand with a knife. Later that evening the brothers reportedly went to Jerera Shopping Centre, where George allegedly stabbed Tatenda Tinarwo in the chest. Tinarwo is currently admitted to Masvingo Provincial Hospital.

On the same day, a teacher from Muchechetere School was allegedly attacked at Chipato Shopping Centre and suffered facial injuries after being stabbed with a broken bottle. Police recorded the cases under reference numbers RRB 6705696 and RRB 6705678, and said investigations are ongoing.

Authorities confirmed that one victim remains hospitalised. The 16‑year‑old sustained a hand injury and received treatment, while the teacher was treated for facial wounds. Police said they are monitoring the condition of all victims and will provide updates as inquiries progress.

Police and local sources said the violence appears linked to long‑running land disputes involving the Muvavi family. The brothers are accused of illegally selling land that belongs to neighbouring villages, including Tinarwo Village. Similar disputes with Mashanyare Village have reportedly been taken to court, according to community members.

Police have launched a manhunt for the suspect believed to be on the run and urged anyone with information to come forward. Assistant Inspector Patinyu said investigators are following leads and processing forensic and witness evidence to build a case. Authorities appealed to community leaders to help calm tensions and to allow the legal process to run its course. Residents were urged to avoid taking the law into their own hands and to report any related incidents to the nearest police station.

Zaka village head stabbing land dispute 2026