Kanyemba, Mashonaland Central — A rural community in Kanyemba is in shock following the brutal murder of a young man by his two brothers over a maize-related dispute. The horrific incident occurred on Thursday, leaving villagers in Charamba village horrified as they witnessed the aftermath of the attack.
The victims, Gilbert Kadziyanike, 25, and Alfred Kadziyanike, 22, reportedly attacked their older brother, Arimasau Kadziyanike, with an axe after tensions over a maize transaction or disagreement escalated. According to local residents, the dispute had been simmering for days, with disagreements over maize storage, sales, or distribution reportedly straining the family relationship.
Witnesses say the confrontation turned violent when words failed to resolve the conflict. Edmore Teguru, a neighbor, recounted the grim scene. “We are deeply saddened here in Charamba village,” Teguru said. “The two suspects axed their brother and left him lying in a pool of blood. Villagers who arrived shortly afterward confirmed that he had died before the police were contacted.”
The body of Arimasau Kadziyanike was collected and transported to Guruve Hospital mortuary for safekeeping as authorities continue their investigation. Inspector Milton Mundembe, Mashonaland Central police spokesperson, confirmed that the police are actively pursuing Gilbert and Alfred Kadziyanike. “We are treating this case with utmost urgency. The suspects fled the scene immediately after committing this violent act, and all available resources are being deployed to locate and apprehend them,” he said.
The police have urged anyone with information on the whereabouts of the two brothers to come forward to assist with the investigation. “Community cooperation is vital in such cases. Even small tips can help bring justice for the deceased and restore peace to the village,” Inspector Mundembe added.
Villagers described the incident as a shocking escalation of what might have otherwise been a common disagreement over farming produce. Maize, being a staple crop in the region, is often at the center of disputes in rural communities where resources and land can be limited. Such disagreements can rapidly intensify, particularly when compounded by long-standing family tensions or financial pressures.
Tragedy in Kanyemba: Brothers Flee After Axing Sibling in Maize Dispute
Local elders and community leaders have expressed deep concern over the incident. They are calling for reconciliation and the establishment of mechanisms to mediate family disputes before they turn deadly. “This tragedy could have been avoided if proper dialogue and community mediation had been sought. Families must be encouraged to resolve conflicts peacefully,” said one senior village elder, who requested anonymity.
Psychologists and social workers working in rural communities have also weighed in, emphasizing the need for education on conflict resolution and stress management in farming communities. “Family disputes over crops or money are common, but they rarely escalate to murder. In this case, emotions overtook reason, leading to irreversible consequences,” a local counselor said.
The incident has left a lasting impact on Charamba village, with many residents struggling to come to terms with the violence. Children and elderly villagers, in particular, are reported to be traumatized, and local leaders are working to provide emotional support and counseling to affected families.
Authorities have warned that Gilbert and Alfred Kadziyanike are considered armed and dangerous. Anyone attempting to confront them is advised to contact the police immediately rather than trying to intervene directly. The police are conducting house-to-house searches and have set up checkpoints along major routes out of Kanyemba in an effort to apprehend the suspects.
This tragic episode serves as a stark reminder of how unresolved disputes, particularly in tightly-knit rural communities, can escalate with devastating consequences. It highlights the importance of community vigilance, early intervention, and accessible mediation services to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As the investigation continues, the people of Kanyemba remain on edge, hoping for swift justice for Arimasau Kadziyanike while grappling with the shock of a brutal fratricide within what was once considered a close-knit family. The police have assured residents that all efforts are being made to bring the suspects to justice and restore a sense of security to the community.
Source- Bulawayo24
