Bloody Christmas as Zimbabwe records 47 murders in six days of festive violence
HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has expressed alarm over a surge in violence during the festive season, with 47 murder cases recorded between December 20 and December 26, marking one of the bloodiest Christmas periods in recent years.
Police spokesperson Paul Nyathi revealed that the murders arose from disputes at beer binges, sporting activities, family gatherings, and altercations over girlfriends. Cases also included attacks by unknown assailants and revenge-fueled violence.
In Mwenezi, a Christmas Day beer binge at Machipisa Tuckshops turned deadly when Mastard Chauke (22) threw a stone during a fight that accidentally killed Ostern Mangaru (29). Meanwhile, in Shurugwi, Learnmore Mudzengi (36) stabbed his younger brother Sydney (21) over a missing pool token at Musavezi Business Centre.
In Harare, a domestic dispute took a horrific turn when Nihipalakar Muyaya (22) fatally assaulted his grandmother, Agnes Duri (70), after she failed to give him a Christmas present. The victim was found lifeless with visible injuries, and Muyaya has since been arrested.
Police are also investigating the mysterious death of Polite Nyauro (23), whose body was discovered at Chipfuvamiti Primary School in Makonde after he went missing during a beer outing on Christmas Day.
The ZRP has called on the public to adopt peaceful conflict resolution methods and urged community leaders and the church to promote respect for human life.
Nyathi emphasized that law enforcement will continue engaging communities to foster a culture of non-violence and lawfulness. an aquarium you will be sick again.”
