In a deeply unsettling development, five officers from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) are facing murder charges in connection with the death of a woman they allegedly assaulted in an attempt to extract a confession. The tragic incident occurred in Selous, Zimbabwe, and has sparked outrage and grief within the local community.
The deceased, identified as Ruvimbo Kamugwala, was reportedly working as a cleaner at the home of Officer Nicola Kadonzvo on July 17, 2024, when the horrifying events unfolded. According to reports from Zimlive, Kadonzvo accused Kamugwala of stealing US$100, leading to a brutal assault aimed at extracting a confession from her.
Prosecutors allege that Kadonzvo, along with Officers Gerald Mupandawana Makore and Judith Mangando, began the assault using switches, electric cables, and physical blows. The situation escalated when Officers Tafadzwa Gerald Madzima and Tavonga Munoda joined in at a local police base. They are said to have used a button stick to further pressure Kamugwala into admitting to the alleged theft.
Despite Kamugwala’s claims that she had given the money to a friend—who subsequently denied receiving it—the officers’ violence continued. Kamugwala later stated she had hidden the money at her home, but a search yielded no results. This led to additional assault and her detention under accusations of theft.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) reported that Kamugwala, who sustained severe injuries, died the following morning while being dragged by the accused officers to consult a prophet. The horrific nature of the assault and the tragic outcome have shocked the community and raised serious concerns about police conduct.
The five officers—Gerald Mupandawana Makore, 38, Nicola Kadonzvo, 28, Judith Mangando, 45, Tafadzwa Gerald Madzima, 22, and Tavonga Munoda, 21—appeared before a Norton magistrate and have been remanded in custody until August 1, 2024. They have been advised to seek bail at the High Court.
The community’s reaction to this case has been one of disbelief and horror. Local residents have expressed their shock at the brutality of the police officers, who are supposed to protect and serve the public. “It’s horrifying to think those meant to protect us could do something so brutal,” one resident commented.
Another voiced the sentiment that justice must be served: “Justice must be served for Ruvimbo. This should never have happened.” The case underscores a pressing need for accountability and reform within law enforcement agencies, as the community grapples with the disturbing reality of police officers committing such egregious acts of violence.
In other news – Gcina Mkhize, ex-Isibaya actress, voices concerns for her life
Acclaimed South African actress Gcina Mkhize, known for her stellar performances on both stage and screen, finds herself and her children in a perilous situation as they face the imminent threat of losing their home in the south of Johannesburg. The 51-year-old star has revealed that a man claiming ownership of the property has been harassing her and her family, escalating the situation to alarming levels.
Since January, Mkhize has endured relentless intimidation from the alleged new owner, who has reportedly taken aggressive steps to force her out of the residence. Read More
