A horrifying murder case has rocked the town of Chegutu after police arrested a 41-year-old woman and her lodger in connection with the brutal killing of a local taxi driver, whose body was found three weeks ago in a secluded area near Kaguvi.
Sekai Apinzi, the ex-wife of the deceased, and her 24-year-old lodger, Munyaradzi Munyaradzi, are now in police custody, facing murder charges over the death of Alec Sinoia. The investigation has also named a third suspect, known only as “Jefu,” who remains at large and is being sought by law enforcement.
Mashonaland West Provincial Police Spokesperson, Inspector Ian Kohwera, confirmed the arrests and revealed disturbing details about the incident. According to Kohwera, the woman is alleged to have orchestrated the attack as part of a bitter and long-running feud with her former husband over the ownership of a house and two vehicles following their divorce.
“Initial investigations suggest that the woman approached her lodger, Munyaradzi, and convinced him to assault the deceased with the intention of leaving him permanently disabled,” Inspector Kohwera said. “Munyaradzi, in turn, enlisted the help of a third individual, Jefu, to carry out the plan. However, what was intended as a vicious beating turned into a fatal and savage assault.”
Sinoia’s lifeless body was discovered in the Kaguvi area with extensive and gruesome injuries. A postmortem examination revealed multiple wounds, including a stab wound to the left thigh, two deep cuts on the left leg, another stab wound on the left buttock, a serious cut on the right lower limb, and a gash above his left ear. The severity of the injuries indicated that the victim had been subjected to a sustained and violent attack.
Chegutu Woman and Lodger Arrested Over Gruesome Murder of Taxi Driver, Accomplice Still at Large
Evidence collected from the crime scene further paints a chilling picture. Blood stains were found approximately 90 meters from the deceased’s vehicle, and physical struggle marks were observed on the body, suggesting Sinoia fought desperately for his life before succumbing to his injuries.
The deceased’s car, a silver Honda Fit with registration number AEP 5524, was recovered about 181 meters from where the body was found. All four windows of the vehicle had been shattered, and the tires had been deliberately punctured with a sharp object. The extensive damage to the vehicle suggests it was intentionally vandalized, likely in a bid to prevent Sinoia from escaping or raising the alarm.
During police questioning, the woman reportedly confessed to her role in the conspiracy. She admitted to directing Munyaradzi to orchestrate the attack and confirmed that Jefu was involved. Both Apinzi and Munyaradzi are now assisting detectives as investigations continue.
The police have since launched a manhunt for Jefu, whose full identity remains undisclosed. Inspector Kohwera urged members of the public to assist in locating the fugitive, promising confidentiality and protection for anyone who comes forward with relevant information.
“We are appealing to the public to help us locate Jefu. Any information that can lead to his arrest will be treated with the utmost confidence. The Zimbabwe Republic Police remains committed to ensuring justice is served in this tragic case,” Kohwera said.
The brutal murder has left the Chegutu community in shock, with residents expressing horror over how a domestic dispute spiraled into such a cold-blooded killing. Many have described the incident as a wake-up call for authorities to strengthen efforts in dealing with domestic-related violence and mental health issues stemming from failed relationships.
Family members of the deceased have called for the swift prosecution of those responsible, saying Sinoia did not deserve to die in such a horrific manner.
“He was a hard-working man, a father, and a brother. It is heartbreaking that his life ended this way,” one relative said.
Apinzi and Munyaradzi are expected to appear in court soon to face formal charges. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies continue to intensify efforts to track down Jefu, who remains on the run.
