Cybersecurity experts are warning members of the public to remain vigilant after fake social media posts claiming to offer “free data” and “cash giveaways” allegedly linked to government officials began circulating online. The misleading adverts, which have gained traction on platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp, falsely claim that citizens are eligible for large amounts of mobile data and money through special presidential programmes. However, checks on official government communication platforms and verified news outlets show no evidence of such programmes being announced. Cybercriminals often use edited videos, fake endorsements, AI-generated voice clips and manipulated images of public figures to make fraudulent promotions appear legitimate. Victims are typically directed to suspicious links where they are asked to: Enter passwords Provide phone numbers Share one-time passwords (OTPs) Submit banking details Log into social media accounts Cybersecurity analyst Admire Mare warned that scammers deliberately exploit economic hardships and public trust to lure victims. “Scammers know people are desperate for financial relief, so they use emotional promises like free money, free internet data and giveaways to manipulate them,” he said. Experts say legitimate government announcements are normally published through official government websites, verified social media accounts, television broadcasts, radio stations, and established news organisations. Fraud investigators say fake giveaway posts frequently originate from cloned pages or accounts impersonating trusted institutions and leaders. Digital safety advocates are encouraging internet users to independently verify information before sharing it online. Online fraud investigators say several warning signs commonly appear in fake promotions: Poor grammar or spelling mistakes Urgent language pressuring users to act quickly Suspicious website links Requests for passwords or OTP codes Unverified social media pages Technology consultant Arthur Marara said no legitimate organisation should ask users to share sensitive login credentials through social media links. “Once scammers obtain passwords or OTP codes, they can hijack accounts, access banking platforms and steal personal information,” he explained. Authorities and cyber awareness groups are encouraging the public to adopt safer online habits to avoid becoming victims of fraud. Residents are being advised to: ✔️ Verify information through official sources ✔️ Follow trusted news platforms ✔️ Avoid clicking unknown links ✔️ Never share passwords or OTP codes ✔️ Report suspicious pages and adverts Cybercrime experts say misinformation and online scams continue to rise as criminals take advantage of increasing internet and smartphone usage across Africa. fake giveaway scam

The Global Institute of Security Management (GISM) has officially announced a strategic partnership with Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University after becoming an affiliate college of the institution. The partnership is expected to strengthen academic standards and professional training within Zimbabwe’s growing security and risk management sector. According to GISM, the collaboration marks a major milestone in advancing quality education, practical training, and industry-focused professional development. GISM said the affiliation will enhance the quality and recognition of several programmes currently offered by the institution. These include the Advanced Diploma in Security and Risk Management, Diploma in Loss Control and Security Investigations, Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Management, and other specialised training programmes. The institution said the partnership is designed to equip students with practical skills, leadership abilities, and industry-relevant expertise needed in the modern security environment. “This partnership marks a significant step in advancing academic excellence and professional expertise in security management,” GISM said in a statement. “Together, we are committed to building stronger futures for students and the industry through high-quality education and practical training.” Experts say demand for trained professionals in security management, occupational health and safety, investigations, and risk assessment continues to rise across Zimbabwe and the region. A Corporate security consultant said institutions offering accredited professional programmes are increasingly important in supporting workplace safety and organisational risk management. “Businesses and institutions now require qualified professionals who understand modern security systems, compliance frameworks and occupational safety standards,” he said. The affiliation is also expected to improve opportunities for students seeking recognised qualifications linked to higher education pathways and professional advancement. GISM said its programmes combine theoretical learning with practical industry training to prepare graduates for careers in both public and private sector security operations. The institution offers training in areas such as investigations, corporate security, occupational safety, risk analysis, and loss control management. Education analysts say partnerships between universities and professional colleges can help bridge the gap between academic learning and workplace expectations. The Global Institute of Security Management campus is located at: 📍 02 Cheetham Close, Greendale, Harare Prospective students and stakeholders can contact the institution through the following channels: 📞 +263 785 040 847 | +263 719 444 944📧 info@gismglobal.org.zw🌐 Global Institute of Security Management Global Institute of Security Management Zimbabwe Education, Security Management, Higher Education, Occupational Health and Safety, Risk Management, Harare Colleges, Zimbabwe Universities, Professional Training, GISM, Education News

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest and conviction of three Harare men who were sentenced to lengthy prison terms after carrying out a violent armed robbery spree that terrorised residents across the capital. The convicted trio Fanuel Kenias, 42, Stanley Mhondoro, 38, and Emson Mahlunge, 39, were handed an effective 50-year prison sentence for armed robbery, rape, and attempted rape committed in Greater Harare. According to police, the suspects operated between March and April 2025, targeting residential properties in various suburbs across Harare. The gang allegedly used machetes and iron bars to attack victims before stealing cash, cellphones and household valuables. Police said the violent nature of the attacks left communities living in fear as the suspects moved from one suburb to another, committing robberies. In a statement released on 22 May 2026, the ZRP said the accused also cleared rape and attempted rape charges linked to the robbery spree. The breakthrough reportedly came on 7 May 2025 when detectives from CID Homicide Harare acted on intelligence connecting Fanuel Kenias to a robbery case that occurred in Dzivarasekwa Extension. Detectives swiftly tracked and arrested Kenias in Dzivarasekwa Extension. Police recovered a small Itel cellphone allegedly stolen during one of the robberies, which became a key piece of evidence in the investigation. Following his arrest, Kenias reportedly implicated his accomplices, leading to the arrests of Mhondoro and Mahlunge. The suspects later guided investigators to several recovered stolen items, including machetes and iron bars allegedly used during the robberies. The three men appeared before the Harare Magistrates' Court on 22 May 2026, where they were convicted and sentenced by Magistrate Chakanyuka. The State was represented by prosecutor Mr Tapi. According to police, the court sentenced the trio to 50 years' imprisonment, with 10 years suspended on condition they do not commit similar offences within the next five years. The effective sentence means the three will each spend decades behind bars for the violent crimes. Following the conviction, the ZRP urged members of the public to strengthen security measures at their homes and avoid exposing valuables to criminals. ZRP Provincial Community Relations Liaison Officer Detective Inspector Muteweri said community vigilance remains critical in preventing violent robberies. Security experts say armed robbery syndicates targeting homes have become an increasing concern in urban areas, particularly during periods of economic hardship. Crime analyst Victor Bhoroma said harsh sentences send a strong message against violent crime. “Violent home invasions create lasting trauma for victims and communities, so strong enforcement and public cooperation are essential,” he said. Harare armed robbery gang Zimbabwe News, Crime News, Harare News, Armed Robbery, ZRP, CID Homicide, Court News, Dzivarasekwa, Breaking News, Zimbabwe Crime

Kwayedza High School has become the centre of a growing controversy after permanent concrete tuckshops were constructed along the school’s perimeter wall, triggering outrage from residents, parents and city officials over learner safety and alleged irregular approvals. The structures, built just metres from pathways used daily by pupils, have raised fears about congestion, security risks and the disruption of the learning environment at the Highfield-based school. At the centre of the dispute is a cooperative known as 50 Angels Pay Scheme, which insists it legally obtained approval from the City of Harare before beginning construction. According to documents seen by local media, a letter dated 6 May 2024 shows that the City of Harare’s Small to Medium Enterprise Committee reportedly recommended approval of the application before the decision was later adopted by full council in March 2024. The approval allegedly authorised the construction of SME trading structures along the school boundary wall, with the area reportedly described as an illegal dumpsite before the development. Cooperative chairperson Philemon Chaguruka defended the project, arguing that members invested significant resources after receiving what they believed were legitimate approvals. “We followed due process, and we are even paying levies to council,” Chaguruka reportedly said while presenting receipts and council correspondence as proof of compliance. He added that demolishing the structures without compensation or alternative trading space would unfairly punish cooperative members who acted in good faith. However, Jacob Mafume has distanced the city from the development, describing the project as unlawful and inappropriate for a school environment. Mafume reportedly labelled the construction “unmitigated mischief” and vowed disciplinary action against any council officials who may have facilitated the project. He insisted that council policy does not permit permanent commercial structures to be erected close to schools because of the safety implications for learners. Stanley Gama, the City of Harare spokesperson, also dismissed the structures as illegal and confirmed that demolition proceedings are being prepared. “The municipality does not support encroachment on school boundaries and will move to restore order,” Gama said. Residents and parents in Highfield have strongly opposed the development, arguing that the structures compromise the safety and integrity of the school environment. Some community members rejected claims that the site was previously a dumpsite, alleging instead that the project represents an illegal land grab disguised as an SME initiative. Parents also expressed concern over increased pedestrian congestion, possible criminal activity, and the exposure of learners to disruptive commercial operations during school hours. A parent who spoke on condition of anonymity said learners now walk dangerously close to construction material and trading activity every day. “It is not safe for children to squeeze through crowded tuckshops when entering or leaving school,” the parent said. The dispute has since escalated into a legal battle at the High Court of Zimbabwe after earlier attempts by the city to demolish the structures were challenged. Court records indicate that a consent order was later issued after the cooperative withdrew its urgent chamber application on condition that the demolition notice would also be withdrawn. Urban planning experts say the case exposes broader governance and land management challenges facing Harare, particularly around informal trading spaces and municipal oversight. Governance analyst Rejoice Ngwenya said authorities must prioritise public safety and transparency in all land allocation decisions. “When developments near schools become controversial, it reflects deeper problems in urban planning accountability and local governance,” he said. Kwayedza High School tuckshops

A special constabulary officer stationed at Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Macheke and three accomplices have been sentenced to prison after being convicted of extorting money from suspected offenders in Headlands. The convicted group includes Jacob Mahomwa, 35, of Afghanistan, in Marondera, his wife, Tanyaradzwa Magudhu, 21, taxi driver Praystone Malenguka, 24, and Malenguka’s girlfriend Lisa Magumanika, 24. The four appeared before Rusape provincial magistrate Tendai Mahwe facing two counts of extortion. Prosecutor Faith Mutukwa told the court that the group posed as law enforcement officers and demanded money from residents in exchange for their release. In one incident, the accused allegedly extorted US$500 from Anna Mukoma of Makudo Farm in Headlands after accusing her of dealing in dagga. “The accused went to the complainant’s residence, introduced themselves as police officers, and Mahomwa produced a police identification card,” the prosecutor told the court. Although Mukoma denied the allegations and reportedly offered the group permission to search her premises, the accused allegedly arrested her instead. Court proceedings heard that while at the vehicle, the group allegedly produced a plastic bag containing dagga and falsely claimed it had been recovered from Mukoma’s home. The accused then allegedly drove her towards Macheke while demanding US$500 for her release. Mukoma reportedly managed to hand over US$100 before the group escorted her back home, where her husband, Isaac Tembo, allegedly paid the remaining US$400. “After receiving the cash, they released the complainant and drove away. The amount stolen was US$500, and nothing was recovered,” Mutukwa said. The court also heard that one of the complainants was threatened with a firearm during the extortion scheme. In a separate case, the four allegedly targeted a suspected illegal fuel dealer. The court heard that the man was taken to Macheke Police Station before being released after paying US$160 to the accused. Although all four pleaded not guilty, they were convicted after a full trial. Each accused person initially received a five-year prison sentence for extortion. However, six months of each sentence were suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour, while another six months were suspended on condition that they compensate the complainants. In a related offence, Mahomwa pleaded guilty and was fined US$300 or four months’ imprisonment in default of payment. His co-accused Magudhu, Malenguka and Magumanika were each sentenced to 12 months in prison, with part of the sentences suspended, leaving them to serve an effective six months behind bars. Legal experts say the case highlights ongoing concerns surrounding abuse of authority and impersonation involving law enforcement credentials. Crime analyst Victor Bhoroma said such cases weaken public trust in policing institutions. “When law enforcement powers are abused for personal gain, it damages community confidence in the justice system,” he said. ZRP extortion case Zimbabwe News, ZRP, Crime News, Court News, Extortion Case, Headlands, Macheke, Rusape Magistrates Court, Police Corruption, Breaking News

A traditional healer from Masvingo allegedly attempted to take his own life inside a courtroom moments after being sentenced to 20 years in prison for rape. Obvious Mauyire, 35, of Mazungunye Village under Chief Mazungunye in Bikita, was convicted by Regional Magistrate Innocent Bepura on 22 May 2026. He was found guilty of raping an 18-year-old woman during what he claimed was a spiritual cleansing ceremony intended to free her from a “spiritual husband.” According to reports presented in court, Mauyire allegedly swallowed an unknown pill shortly after the sentence was passed. Witnesses said the courtroom was suddenly filled with a strong smell before the convict reportedly began convulsing in the dock. Court officials and police officers rushed to assist him before he was transported to Masvingo Provincial Hospital for emergency treatment. His condition had not been officially disclosed at the time of publication. Prosecutor Nixon Chamisa told the court that the incident occurred on 14 November 2025 after the complainant and her family visited Mauyire’s shrine seeking spiritual assistance. The teenager, who comes from Dulivadzimu in Beitbridge, had travelled with relatives for what was reportedly their second consultation with the healer. The family had allegedly been instructed to bring four bottles of Nyathi opaque beer and snuff for the cleansing rituals. Upon arrival, they were also reportedly told to purchase Clear Aqua Spirit as a substitute for wine. Court proceedings heard that the complainant was instructed to take snuff and drink traditional beer from a wooden cup during ancestral rituals. Mauyire later allegedly directed the family to return home while the teenager remained behind for an overnight cleansing ceremony at a nearby mountain. Although the complainant’s mother reportedly objected, she was allegedly assured that female assistants would accompany her daughter, something prosecutors said never happened. At around 10 pm, Mauyire allegedly assaulted and raped the complainant during the ceremony. The following morning, the teenager was reportedly instructed to bathe in warm water mixed with herbs as part of the ritual process. The court heard that the complainant only disclosed the rape to her mother several months later, in March 2026. She reportedly told investigators that memories of the attack continued to haunt her and that reading a similar story online eventually encouraged her to speak out. Gender rights activists have repeatedly warned communities against abusive practices disguised as spiritual or traditional healing rituals. Legal analyst Rumbidzai Mugwagwa said the case highlights the importance of safeguarding vulnerable people seeking spiritual assistance. “No cultural or spiritual practice should ever be used to violate consent or exploit vulnerable individuals,” she said. Masvingo rape case Zimbabwe News, Masvingo, Bikita, Court News, Crime News, Traditional Healer, Rape Case, Breaking News, Gender Violence, Zimbabwe Courts

The National Sports Stadium (NSS) will host an operational test match on Sunday, 31 May 2026, as part of final preparations for its long-awaited reopening following extensive renovations. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, which said the event will be used to assess the stadium’s readiness ahead of full-scale domestic and international sporting events. According to the ministry, the test match will evaluate key operational areas, including: Spectator flow and crowd management Safety and emergency protocols Seating arrangements Pitch quality and playing conditions Stadium access systems General operational readiness The Premier Soccer League and Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) are expected to announce the teams that will participate in the fixture. Officials say the game will serve as a live simulation to ensure all stadium systems are functioning properly before the venue resumes hosting major matches. In a statement issued on 22 May 2026, Secretary for Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Nicholas Moyo urged Zimbabweans to attend the event and celebrate the revival of the country’s largest sporting venue. “The public should turn out in numbers to witness this historic moment as the stadium prepares to reclaim its place as the home of Zimbabwean football and international sporting excellence,” Moyo said. The ministry said the refurbished stadium now includes upgraded bucket seats, modernised amenities, an improved playing surface and enhanced spectator facilities designed to meet international standards. The reopening of the National Sports Stadium is expected to provide a major boost for Zimbabwean football and other sporting disciplines. The venue has been closed for refurbishment works aimed at addressing concerns previously raised by international football authorities regarding infrastructure and safety standards. Sports analyst Hope Chizuzu said the reopening could help restore Zimbabwe’s ability to host international fixtures locally. “The National Sports Stadium is central to Zimbabwean football identity. Its reopening is important for supporters, players and the country’s international sporting reputation,” he said. Football supporters have welcomed news of the operational test match, with many expressing excitement over the possibility of seeing international matches return to Harare. The stadium has historically hosted major football events involving the Zimbabwe national football team as well as continental club competitions and national ceremonies. Authorities are expected to release additional details regarding ticketing, kickoff times, and match-day procedures in the coming days. National Sports Stadium Zimbabwe Football, National Sports Stadium, ZIFA, PSL Zimbabwe, Harare Sports, Stadium Renovations, Sports News, Zimbabwe Sports, Football News, Breaking News

Dynamos FC have received a major boost after businessman and philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo gifted the club a state-of-the-art 60-seater luxury team bus. The vehicle, a Marcopolo Paradiso 1350 G8 executive coach, is expected to significantly improve the travelling conditions of players and technical staff during domestic and regional assignments. According to details released about the bus, the modern coach comes equipped with several premium features designed to enhance comfort during long-distance travel. The luxury bus reportedly includes: Reclining memory foam seats Full air-conditioning system Onboard entertainment facilities USB charging ports Refrigerator unit Rear toilet facilities Driver’s sleeping compartment The donation marks one of the most high-profile infrastructure boosts for Zimbabwean football in recent years. Dynamos FC, popularly known as DeMbare, is one of Zimbabwe’s most successful football clubs with a massive fan base across the country. Club supporters welcomed the donation on social media, with many describing it as a positive development for player welfare and professional standards in local football. Football analyst Misheck Chidzambwa said improved transport infrastructure can have a significant impact on team morale and performance. “Comfortable and reliable travel arrangements are important in professional football because they affect player recovery, preparation and overall welfare,” he said. Wicknell Chivayo has increasingly become associated with high-profile donations and sponsorships involving churches, musicians, public personalities, and sports organisations. The latest gesture adds to a growing list of philanthropic activities that have kept the businessman in the public spotlight in recent months. Supporters say the luxury coach could help reduce travel fatigue for players during long road trips across Zimbabwe and Southern Africa. Images and videos of the bus quickly circulated online, attracting praise from football supporters who said local clubs often struggle with transport and logistical challenges. Some supporters also called on more private sector players to invest in Zimbabwean football infrastructure and athlete welfare. Dynamos are expected to officially unveil the bus ahead of the upcoming league fixtures. Dynamos FC bus Dynamos FC, Zimbabwe Football, Wicknell Chivayo, PSL Zimbabwe, Sports News, Marcopolo Bus, DeMbare, Football Sponsorship, Zimbabwe Sports, Breaking News

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested a 41-year-old man after recovering smuggled drugs and substances worth approximately US$12,000 at Beitbridge Border Post. Police identified the suspect as Venancio Muchazondida. According to police, officers intercepted 48 boxes containing illegal drugs and substances that had allegedly been concealed inside Maq washing powder packaging. Authorities said the drugs were also wrapped in black plastic in what investigators believe was an attempt to avoid detection during border inspections. Police further seized a Nissan Elgrand, registration number ADG 3066, which was allegedly being used to transport the contraband. The arrest forms part of ongoing operations targeting drug trafficking and smuggling activities at Zimbabwe’s busiest border crossings. Beitbridge Border Post remains one of Southern Africa’s busiest transit points and has increasingly become a focus area for anti-smuggling operations involving drugs, contraband goods and illegal substances. Security experts say traffickers often attempt to disguise illicit substances inside ordinary household products to bypass customs and police inspections. Crime analyst Bekezela Gumbo said organised smuggling syndicates continue adapting their concealment methods. “Drug traffickers are becoming more sophisticated in how they conceal illegal substances, especially along major regional trade routes,” he said. The latest arrest comes amid Zimbabwe’s intensified national crackdown on drug and substance abuse. The government recently confirmed that thousands of suspects had been arrested nationwide under the Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan targeting suppliers, distributors, and users of illegal substances. Authorities say the anti-drug campaign also focuses on dismantling trafficking networks operating through border posts and transport corridors. Police have repeatedly warned transport operators and motorists against participating in smuggling activities, saying offenders face serious criminal charges under Zimbabwean law. The ZRP urged members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement authorities by reporting suspicious activities linked to drug trafficking and substance abuse. Officials say public tip-offs remain important in disrupting criminal supply chains and protecting communities from the growing dangers associated with illegal drugs. Investigations into the Beitbridge case are continuing. Beitbridge drug bust Zimbabwe News, Beitbridge, Drug Bust, ZRP, Smuggling, Border Security, Crime News, Substance Abuse, Police Investigation, Breaking News

Police in Harare have launched investigations after the body of a young man was discovered tied to an electricity pole in Waterfalls on Saturday morning in a suspected murder case. The grim discovery was made in Grobbie Park, an area within the southern Harare suburb, where residents woke up to find the deceased with visible injuries. Authorities believe the victim may have been assaulted by unknown attackers before his body was dumped at the scene. Residents who gathered near the scene described the incident as deeply disturbing and said fear was growing within the community over rising violent crime. Witnesses said police officers quickly attended the area after receiving reports from members of the public. The Zimbabwe Republic Police had not yet released an official statement at the time of publication, but investigations were reportedly already underway. A local resident, Tawanda Muchengeti, said the incident had left many people frightened. “It’s very disturbing to wake up and see something like this in the neighbourhood. People are now scared to move around early in the morning or late at night,” he said. Community members also expressed concern over what they say is an increase in violent incidents across parts of Harare. Some residents warned people against walking alone during late-night or early-morning hours, especially in poorly lit areas. Security analyst Ernest Mudzengi said communities often become increasingly anxious when violent crimes appear more visible in residential areas. “Cases involving extreme violence naturally create fear within communities and increase pressure on law enforcement agencies to respond quickly,” he said. The latest case comes shortly after another shocking incident in Warren Park, where a man recently appeared in court accused of killing his friend and concealing the body in a gravel pit. Police in that matter arrested Shepard Severa in connection with the death of Brian Nandana. The incident sparked widespread public concern after investigators alleged the suspect lured the victim before killing him. Law enforcement authorities are expected to appeal to members of the public for information that could help identify suspects linked to the Waterfalls case. Police often urge residents to report suspicious movements, violent threats, or criminal activities through nearby police stations and anonymous tip-off channels. Investigators are still working to establish the identity of the deceased and the motive behind the suspected killing. Waterfalls murder case Zimbabwe News, Crime News, Waterfalls Harare, ZRP, Murder Investigation, Harare Crime, Grobbie Park, Breaking News, Police Investigation, Community Safety

Tinoda Machakaire has appeared to criticise businessman Wicknell Chivayo following the controversial arrest of Chivayo’s former wife, Sonja Madzikanda, and her mother, Tabitha Madzikanda. Although Machakaire did not directly mention Chivayo by name, his comments were widely interpreted as a response to the public fallout surrounding the high-profile family dispute. The former couple shares two children together. In a statement posted on X, Machakaire, who also serves as ZANU PF Secretary for Youth Affairs, warned against the misuse of authority, influence, and wealth in personal conflicts. He stressed that disagreements or separations should never justify humiliating or intimidating others, particularly women and elderly people. “As a father, I believe one of the greatest responsibilities of a man is to honour and appreciate the woman who carries and nurtures the children that become part of his family,” Machakaire wrote. “In doing so, respect for her family becomes a true reflection of one’s character, maturity and values.” The minister also urged young Zimbabweans to embrace dignity, restraint, and respect during personal disputes. “True leadership is not demonstrated through intimidation, abuse of authority or the misuse of influence against others, especially women and the elderly,” he added. Machakaire’s statement comes days after Chivayo publicly defended the arrest and detention of Sonja and Tabitha Madzikanda over allegations linked to AI-generated images involving South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. Speaking outside court after withdrawing the charges, Chivayo remarked that his former mother-in-law had “learnt a lesson” after spending several days in custody. The arrests generated intense debate across Zimbabwean social media and political circles, with critics questioning whether state institutions were being drawn into a personal family dispute. Machakaire emphasised that children often learn from the conduct of adults and urged public figures to model integrity and humanity. “No grievance, misunderstanding or separation should ever justify the use of power, money, or office to suppress, intimidate or humiliate another family,” he said. “Our children learn more from our conduct than from our words, and I want mine to inherit a legacy founded on respect, integrity, peace and humanity.” Political observers say Machakaire’s comments are significant given his senior role within the ruling party and his growing influence among younger party members. Political analyst Alexander Rusero said the statement appeared aimed at promoting restraint and responsible conduct among influential figures. “The remarks reflect growing public sensitivity around perceived abuse of influence and the role of public figures in private disputes,” he said. The controversy surrounding Chivayo and the Madzikanda family continues to dominate Zimbabwean social and political conversations. Digital rights activists, lawyers, and civil society groups have also raised broader concerns over the increasing use of cybercrime laws in interpersonal disputes involving prominent individuals. At the same time, supporters of Chivayo argue he had the legal right to pursue complaints through the justice system before ultimately choosing reconciliation. Tinoda Machakaire Zimbabwe News, Tinoda Machakaire, Wicknell Chivayo, Politics, Sonja Madzikanda, ZANU PF, Social Media, Family Disputes, Harare, Breaking News

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed that eight people died in a tragic road traffic accident in Hwange on Saturday morning. According to police, all the victims were members of the Roman Catholic Church who were travelling home from a night prayer service when the accident occurred. In a brief statement, police said the fatal accident happened at around 7 am along Deka Road near Deka Bridge. Authorities said a commuter omnibus carrying 13 church congregants plunged off the bridge under circumstances that are still being investigated. “The ZRP reports a fatal road traffic accident at Deka Bridge along Deka Road, Hwange. Eight Roman Catholic members died when their kombi plunged into the bridge as they were coming from night prayers,” police said. “The accident occurred on 23/05/26 at 0700 hours. The vehicle had 13 occupants. More details to be released soon.” Police have not yet confirmed the identities of the deceased pending notification of relatives. The condition of the surviving passengers had not been officially released at the time of publication. Traffic investigators are expected to examine possible causes of the crash, including mechanical failure, road conditions, and driver error. Residents in Hwange described the accident as devastating, particularly because the victims were reportedly returning from a church gathering. Local community leader Moses Ndlovu said the incident had left many families in mourning. “It is a painful tragedy for the community and the church. People were simply returning home after prayers,” he said. Zimbabwe continues to record high numbers of fatal road accidents involving commuter omnibuses and public transport vehicles. Road safety experts have repeatedly called for stricter vehicle inspections, improved road infrastructure, and stronger enforcement of traffic regulations. Transport analyst Gift Mugano said fatigue during early morning travel could also be a contributing factor in some church-related travel accidents. “Long overnight gatherings followed by early morning road travel can increase risks for both drivers and passengers,” he noted. The ZRP said more details regarding the Hwange tragedy would be released after the investigations progress. Hwange accident Zimbabwe News, Hwange, Road Accident, ZRP, Roman Catholic Church, Traffic Accident, Breaking News, Deka Bridge, Public Transport, Matabeleland North