HARARE – Police have arrested a second suspect in connection with the brutal murder of prominent Ruwa businessman Joseph Mutangadura, marking a major breakthrough in a case that has gripped the nation and sent shockwaves through the local business community.
The suspect, Given Mandizadza (34), was apprehended following an intensive police operation led by detectives from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Homicide Unit. His arrest comes just weeks after police detained the first suspect, Phillip Mutasa, in connection with the same case. Both men are now facing murder and armed robbery charges related to the fatal attack that occurred at Mutangadura Hideout, a popular leisure spot located along Dunstan Road in Ruwa, in August this year.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the latest development, describing it as a significant step forward in unravelling the details of the high-profile crime.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of another suspect, Given Mandizadza, in connection with the murder of Mr. Joseph Mutangadura,” said Commissioner Nyathi. “On October 13, detectives from CID Homicide received credible intelligence regarding the suspect’s whereabouts. Acting on the tip-off, officers tracked Mandizadza to the intersection of Robert Mugabe Road and Julius Nyerere Way in central Harare, where they swiftly moved in and effected the arrest.”
What initially appeared to be a straightforward capture quickly turned into a high-stakes operation when officers discovered an assortment of weapons and explosives in the suspect’s possession. According to police reports, Mandizadza was driving a white Isuzu vehicle that contained a dangerous cache of arms and tools, raising concerns that the suspect may have been involved in other violent crimes.
“During the arrest, police recovered two pistols — one with an empty magazine and another loaded with seven live rounds — along with three 32 long live cartridges and two fuses,” Nyathi revealed. “In addition, officers seized two explosives, a baby grinder, and a black monkey hat, commonly known as a balaclava.”
The discovery of the weapons has deepened the intrigue surrounding the case, suggesting that the murder of Mutangadura may have been part of a larger, more organized criminal network. Investigators are now examining the possibility that the suspects were involved in other armed robberies and criminal operations in the Harare and Ruwa areas.
Second Suspect Nabbed in Mutangadura Murder Case as Police Recover Weapons Cache
The arrest comes after months of painstaking investigation into the August murder of Joseph Mutangadura, a respected businessman and community leader known for his investments in the hospitality and transport sectors. Mutangadura was attacked and fatally wounded in what police believe was a violent robbery at his establishment. His death sparked outrage among residents and business owners, who demanded swift justice and stronger security measures in the area.
Police have since intensified their efforts to track down all individuals linked to the crime. Commissioner Nyathi said the latest arrest demonstrates the determination of law enforcement officers to dismantle criminal syndicates operating in the country.
“The recovery of these weapons and the arrest of a second suspect show our unwavering commitment to tackling violent crime,” Nyathi stated. “We will not rest until every individual involved in this brutal act is brought to justice. Our homicide detectives are working tirelessly, following every lead and using intelligence-driven operations to ensure justice is served.”
CID Homicide officers, who have been spearheading the investigation, are now focusing on tracing the origins of the recovered weapons and explosives. Forensic experts are also examining the seized items to establish any links to other unresolved robbery and murder cases.
Residents of Ruwa have welcomed the police breakthrough, expressing relief that progress is being made. Community leaders praised the CID Homicide Unit for its diligence, saying the swift action had restored a sense of confidence in law enforcement.
A local business owner, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “The murder of Mr. Mutangadura shook us all. He was a respected figure who employed many people. Knowing that suspects are being arrested brings us some comfort, but we still want to see full justice done.”
As investigations continue, police have appealed to the public for cooperation, urging anyone with information that could assist in locating other suspects to come forward.
“We call upon citizens to continue sharing information with the police. No detail is too small. Working together, we can rid our communities of dangerous elements who have no respect for human life,” Commissioner Nyathi said.
Both Mandizadza and Mutasa have appeared in court, where they were formally charged and remanded in custody pending further investigations. Police sources indicate that more arrests are imminent as detectives close in on others believed to have participated in the planning and execution of the deadly attack.
The case of Joseph Mutangadura’s murder continues to highlight the growing threat of armed criminal activity in the country and the importance of community vigilance. For now, the police remain resolute — determined to bring closure to a case that has left an indelible mark on the Ruwa community and the nation at large.
Source- iHarare
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