By Buhle Mhlaulo
Police in Gweru Rural have launched a manhunt for Rangarirai Mutengwa, 32, suspected of murdering his 27-year-old partner, Abigal Khumalo.
The spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Republic Police in Midlands Province, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed that Khumalo’s body was found in their residence.
The decomposed body of Khumalo was found in their residence at Harmonie Farm, Somabula, Gweru on 21 March.
According to reports, Mutengwa and Khumalo were cohabiting at the farm, where they were both employed.
Neighbors reported that Mutengwa had a history of accusing Khumalo of infidelity and physically abusing her.
The last time the couple was seen was on March 10.
When a neighbor returned to the farm on March 20, 2025, he noticed a strong stench and files on the couple’s door, which was locked from the outside.
The neighbor, accompanied by others, forced the door open the next day and discovered Khumalo’s body.
Inspector Mahoko urged the public to bring in information on Mutengwa to the police.
“We are appealing to the public for information leading to Mutengwa’s arrest.
Anyone with information is urged to report to the nearest police station or use the police suggestion boxes.”
Meanwhile, Police in Gweru are investigating a Fatal Road Traffic accident where an infant aged 10 months died on the spot after a collision of two motor vehicles.
The incident occurred on 22 March 2025 around 1520 hours, at the 84 km peg along Mvuma – Gweru road near OK Mart, Gweru.
Elton Shoko (27), of Greenvale in Gweru was driving a Nissan Caravan Commuter omnibus, towards Gweru, carrying 11 passengers.
At the same time, an unknown motorist was driving a Jeep motor vehicle, registration AFD 0245, in the opposite direction.
Upon reaching the 84km peg, the Jeep tried to overtake another vehicle and in the process, encroached onto the opposite lane, resulting in a head-on collision with Shoko’s vehicle.
One female infant died on the spot and eleven other passengers got injured.
The Jeep motor vehicle driver got out of his vehicle and ran away and has not been located.
ZRP attended the scene and the injured people were transported to Gweru Provincial Hospital, where some were treated and discharged, while others were admitted.
Police are appealing to members of the public who might have information concerning the driver or owner of the Jeep registration AFD 0245, white in color, which was involved in this accident, to come forward and assist.
