A tragic case of alleged filicide has shocked the Waterfalls community after a 41-year-old man was arrested for reportedly assaulting his teenage son to death following the youth’s failure to pass Police recruitment tests.
The suspect, Gibson Munyoro, a security officer by profession, is accused of violently attacking his 19-year-old son, Ngonidzashe Munyoro, after the latter was turned away from the Zimbabwe Republic Police recruitment interviews held at Mkushi Academy (formerly Morris Depot) in July 2025. This devastating event unfolded shortly after Ngonidzashe’s unsuccessful attempt to join the police force.
According to reports, Ngonidzashe attended the police recruitment interviews on July 29, 2025. However, on August 2, he was informed that he had been deemed unfit for police duties and was consequently rejected from the recruitment process. The rejection appeared to have set off a chain of events that culminated in the teenager’s brutal assault and subsequent death.
Upon returning home from Mkushi Academy, Ngonidzashe was confronted by his father, Gibson Munyoro, who reportedly demanded an explanation for his son’s failure to pass the recruitment tests. Dissatisfied with the answers he received, Gibson allegedly resorted to extreme disciplinary measures that would soon turn fatal.
Eyewitness accounts and family testimonies reveal that Gibson tied Ngonidzashe’s hands and legs and suspended him between two tables using an iron bar threaded through the bindings. During this time, Gibson allegedly subjected his son to a vicious beating with a baton stick, causing severe physical trauma.
Neighbours reported hearing Ngonidzashe’s desperate cries for help during the ordeal, but Gibson allegedly warned off anyone who attempted to intervene. The violence continued unchecked until Ngonidzashe’s mother, Ruvimbo Masunga, arrived on the scene after receiving reports of the assault.
Upon arrival, Mrs. Masunga, with assistance from neighbours, was able to restrain her husband and remove their son from the brutal confinement. Despite their efforts to save him, Ngonidzashe succumbed to his injuries shortly after being brought inside the family home.
The harrowing incident has left the community in disbelief, raising urgent questions about domestic violence and parental discipline limits.
Father Arrested for Allegedly Assaulting Son to Death Over Police Recruitment Failure
Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza confirmed the arrest of Gibson Munyoro in connection with the murder case. “Police are investigating a murder case involving a teenager and his biological father. Full details will be released in due course,” Inspector Chakanza stated, emphasizing that investigations are still underway.
Authorities have assured the public that they will pursue the matter with urgency, ensuring that justice is served. The tragic death has reignited discussions about the welfare and protection of children within homes, highlighting the need for increased community vigilance and intervention mechanisms.
This case also sheds light on the intense pressure many young Zimbabweans face when aspiring to join prestigious institutions like the Zimbabwe Republic Police. With police recruitment viewed as a respected and stable career path, rejection can sometimes lead to deep emotional distress and familial tensions.
Experts in youth psychology note that parental expectations, when not managed with sensitivity, may inadvertently contribute to harmful situations. “While it is natural for parents to want the best for their children, excessive pressure or harsh disciplinary actions can lead to tragic outcomes,” said a local psychologist.
The Munyoro family tragedy underscores the importance of open communication and emotional support within families, especially when young people encounter setbacks.Community leaders and child rights activists have condemned the violent death of Ngonidzashe Munyoro, calling for stronger efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future. They urge parents and guardians to adopt non-violent approaches when addressing behavioural or performance issues with their children.
“There must be zero tolerance for violence in homes,” said a spokesperson for a local child protection organization. “Children must be protected not only from external dangers but also from abuse within their own families.”
The tragic event has also highlighted gaps in social services and community support structures that could help identify and intervene in high-risk domestic situations before they escalate to fatal outcomes.
As investigations continue, the Munyoro family is left to grapple with the devastating loss of a young life full of promise. The case serves as a somber reminder of the critical need for awareness, education, and resources to address family violence and safeguard the well-being of children.
In the meantime, police and social workers urge anyone aware of abuse or violence in homes to report such incidents promptly to authorities to prevent further tragedies.
Source- BULAWAYO24
