Police have launched a massive nationwide manhunt for a gang of seven suspected armed robbers who shot and killed prominent Ruwa businessman Joseph “Mutangaz” Mutangadura in a violent raid on his Lisheen Estate farmhouse on Sunday night.
According to police investigations, the chilling attack unfolded around 11pm when a masked gang stormed the property. Armed with pistols, hammers, and claw bars, the robbers first overpowered the security guard at the gate. They tied his hands with shoelaces before dragging him into the main house, where the gang used metal bars to smash open the bedroom door.
Inside, Mutangadura, 67, was resting with his wife. In the chaos that followed, the businessman was shot in the stomach as he lay in bed. The attackers then ransacked the house, searching for valuables, before fleeing into the night. Both Mutangadura and his wife were later discovered unconscious and rushed to Eden Hospital in Windsor, Ruwa. Tragically, he was pronounced dead on arrival, while his wife remains hospitalized and is receiving treatment.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident, describing it as a brutal act of violence that has shaken the local community.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is investigating cases of murder and robbery which occurred at a farm along Dustain Road, Ruwa, on August 17, 2025, at around 23:00 hours where a businessman, Mutangadura Joseph, aged 67, was shot dead during a suspected robbery incident,” Comm Nyathi said.
He added that during the raid, the suspects also tied up Mutangadura’s son and the security guard, forcing them to lie helplessly on the floor as the gang carried out the attack. The value of the stolen property is still being assessed.
Detectives from the CID Homicide Section in Harare have been deployed to lead investigations, and roadblocks have been set up in several parts of the country in an effort to track down the suspects. Police have urged members of the public with any information to come forward, stressing that the gang remains armed and dangerous.
Nationwide Manhunt for Armed Robbers After Murder of Prominent Ruwa Businessman Joseph Mutangadura
News of Mutangadura’s death has left the Ruwa community and beyond in shock. The late businessman was a well-known figure, with wide-ranging investments including Mutangaz Hideout, Mutangaz Panyama, and Lisheen Estate. His enterprises provided livelihoods for many families in the area, cementing his reputation as both a successful entrepreneur and a community pillar.
At the Mutangadura homestead yesterday, hundreds of mourners gathered to pay their respects. Family members, friends, business associates, and community leaders described him as a generous man who touched many lives.
His son, Munyaradzi Mutangadura, said the loss was devastating for the family.
“We have lost our pillar of strength, someone who loved people dearly and cared for many in the community. It is a huge loss to us and the community at large,” he said.
The outpouring of grief has not been limited to Ruwa. Prominent lawyer and politician Obert Gutu expressed his sorrow on social media, describing Mutangadura as a rare talent in the business world.
“Personally, I feel absolutely heartbroken by the tragic and untimely death of this business luminary, a man with a discerning business acumen, brilliant focus and amazing attention to detail,” Gutu wrote. He recalled a recent visit to Lisheen Estate, where Mutangadura had proudly showcased his projects and plans for expansion.
Other business leaders also paid tribute, emphasizing how Mutangadura’s ventures created employment opportunities and boosted local development. For many, his death is not only a personal tragedy but also a blow to the broader community and the local economy.
As investigations intensify, police have reiterated their appeal for information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects. Commissioner Nyathi urged the public to cooperate, stressing that every detail, no matter how small, could prove crucial.
“We call upon all Zimbabweans to assist the police with any leads. The suspects are dangerous and we need to ensure they are apprehended swiftly to prevent further loss of life,” Nyathi said.
Authorities have also encouraged residents to strengthen their own security measures and remain vigilant, as cases of armed robbery targeting prominent businesspeople and farmers have been on the rise in recent months.Joseph Mutangadura’s untimely death marks the loss of not just a businessman, but also a mentor and leader within his community. Friends described him as a man of vision who believed in investing locally, building enterprises that uplifted others rather than only enriching himself.
As the nation comes to terms with the tragedy, attention now turns to ensuring that justice is served. Police say they will leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators to account.
For the Mutangadura family, however, the pain of losing a husband, father, and community leader is immeasurable. As mourners continue to gather at the family home, the memory of his generosity, entrepreneurial spirit, and community service will remain etched in the hearts of many.
Source- Bulawayo24
