The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has voiced growing concern over a disturbing trend of violent crimes involving individuals with mental health conditions, following a recent triple murder in Makoni Village, Tengwe. Authorities are urging communities to take mental health issues seriously and to ensure that those affected receive proper care and supervision.
In a statement issued this week, the police said the latest incident occurred on 18 August 2025, when Patrick Makufa, a mental health patient, allegedly attacked three people using an axe handle, resulting in their deaths. The victims, identified as Constaine Mabheka (55), Kunashe Mabheka (4), and Atilda Mharadze (19), were all killed on the spot in what police describe as a brutal and unprovoked attack.
According to the official report, Makufa first struck Constaine Mabheka several times on the head with an axe handle, causing her immediate death. He then allegedly hit Kunashe Mabheka, a young child, once on the head before ambushing Atilda Mharadze and striking her multiple times on the head. Police confirmed that all three victims succumbed to their injuries before help could arrive.
Authorities have arrested the suspect, and investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack. The police emphasized that such incidents highlight the urgent need for communities and families to take mental health challenges seriously and to ensure affected individuals receive professional assistance and support.
Police Raise Alarm Over Rising Murder Cases Linked to Mental Health Conditions
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges the public to exercise caution, particularly when interacting with individuals with mental health challenges,” the statement read. “We implore families and guardians of individuals with mental health issues to seek professional help and ensure that they receive the necessary support and treatment on time.”
Mental health experts have long warned that untreated or poorly managed mental health conditions can sometimes lead to unpredictable and violent behavior, although such cases remain rare. In Zimbabwe, access to mental health services is limited, particularly in rural areas, placing a heavy responsibility on families and communities to monitor and support those affected.
Community members in Makoni Village expressed shock and grief over the killings, describing the incident as unprecedented and deeply unsettling. “We never imagined something like this could happen in our village,” said one resident who wished to remain anonymous. “It has left us all scared and mourning for the families of the victims. Mental health is real, and people need to take it seriously.”
The tragedy has also sparked broader discussions about the need for increased awareness, better access to mental health care, and stronger support networks for patients and their families. Advocates argue that early intervention, counselling, and medical treatment can prevent such incidents and improve the quality of life for individuals living with mental health conditions.
Police further cautioned that while mental health challenges can present risks, the majority of individuals living with such conditions are not violent. They urged the public not to stigmatize or marginalize people with mental health problems but rather to work with families, medical practitioners, and community organizations to ensure appropriate care and supervision.
“This is a wake-up call for all of us,” said one mental health advocate in Harare. “Communities, families, and authorities must collaborate to identify those in need of help and provide them with proper treatment and monitoring. Preventing tragedies like the one in Makoni Village requires vigilance, empathy, and timely professional intervention.”
The ZRP said it is continuing with investigations to establish the full circumstances of the Makoni Village attack, including whether any warning signs were overlooked and whether there were lapses in supervision or care. They also pledged to work closely with mental health authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future.
While the investigation is ongoing, authorities hope the tragedy will prompt urgent action to strengthen mental health services and awareness campaigns across Zimbabwe. Families and communities are being encouraged to report any concerning behavior among individuals with mental health conditions and to seek guidance from medical professionals.
The Makoni Village incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential consequences of untreated mental health issues and the vital importance of timely intervention, monitoring, and support. As Zimbabwe mourns the loss of the three victims, police and mental health advocates are calling for a renewed focus on prevention, treatment, and community engagement to safeguard vulnerable individuals and protect public safety.
Source- ZimEye
