Police in Zimbabwe have confirmed the death of Constable Courage Muchechesi after he was shot at ZRP Sanyati during an attempt to apprehend a suspect linked to the August 2025 murder of businessman Joseph Mutangadura. The incident, described by law enforcement as a violent confrontation, also involved injuries to another officer before the suspect was eventually captured with the assistance of local residents.
Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that Mutasa, the primary suspect, allegedly opened fire on officers as they sought to arrest him in connection with Mutangadura’s killing. Detective Constable Ngwenya, a member of the CID Homicide Division and part of the arrest team, was reportedly shot by Mutasa prior to the fatal shooting of Constable Muchechesi.
Following the attack on police officers, Mutasa allegedly committed an armed robbery, targeting Abraham Mayavo (30), a civilian who had been at the station to file a report. The suspect reportedly seized US$5 from Mayavo before fleeing the premises.
Despite the violence, police confirmed that Mutasa was eventually apprehended, thanks to a coordinated effort between law enforcement and members of the public across Sanyati, Kadoma, Chakari, and Patchway. Commissioner Nyathi commended the public for their swift action, stating that their cooperation was instrumental in bringing the suspect into custody. He also indicated that further details would be released as the investigation progresses.
This arrest follows an earlier apprehension of Phillip Mutasa (38) by CID Homicide detectives in Mkoba 6, Gweru, on October 3, also in connection with the murder of Joseph Mutangadura. During questioning, Phillip reportedly confessed to participating in the August 17 killing and implicated seven accomplices, who remain at large.
According to police reports, Joseph Mutangadura, a 67-year-old entrepreneur and owner of Mutangaz Hideout, Mutangaz Panyama, and Lisheen Estate in Ruwa, was shot in the stomach during a home invasion. A gang of masked assailants, armed with pistols, claw bars, and hammers, reportedly overpowered a security guard before breaking into Mutangadura’s house and business premises along Dunstan Road.
During the attack, Mutangadura’s wife was assaulted and injured but survived the ordeal. The businessman, however, succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead upon arrival at Eden Hospital in Windsor, Ruwa. The robbers escaped with an undisclosed amount of cash and valuables, prompting an immediate nationwide manhunt for the remaining suspects believed to be part of the armed gang.
Constable Killed During Arrest of Suspect in Mutangadura Murder Case; Public Praised for Role in Apprehension
Commissioner Nyathi emphasized the ongoing risk posed by armed criminal elements and urged the public to remain vigilant. “We appeal to members of the public to continue assisting law enforcement agencies with information that could lead to the arrest of the outstanding suspects. Community cooperation remains critical in tackling violent crime,” he said.
The case has highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers, particularly when confronting armed and violent suspects. Constable Muchechesi’s death underscores the risks inherent in police work, especially in high-stakes cases involving armed criminals. Authorities have reassured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to hold all perpetrators accountable.
The combined efforts of police and local communities in Sanyati, Kadoma, Chakari, and Patchway demonstrate the crucial role citizens play in supporting law enforcement operations. Commissioner Nyathi praised this collaboration, noting that it was pivotal in preventing the suspect from causing further harm following the shooting of officers and the robbery at the station.
Meanwhile, police continue to track down the seven remaining accomplices named by Phillip Mutasa, emphasizing that anyone with information about their whereabouts should come forward. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has indicated that they are employing both intelligence-led operations and traditional policing methods to ensure that all suspects involved in Mutangadura’s murder are brought to justice.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat of violent crime in Zimbabwe and the need for continued vigilance by both law enforcement and the public. Authorities reaffirm their commitment to apprehending criminals and maintaining public safety, while honoring the sacrifice of officers like Constable Courage Muchechesi, whose lives are risked in the line of duty.
As the investigation unfolds, police have urged residents to report any suspicious activity promptly, stressing that timely information can prevent further tragedy and aid in the capture of dangerous suspects. The community’s role, in partnership with law enforcement, remains a key factor in combating violent crime and ensuring justice for victims like Joseph Mutangadura.
Source- Nehanadaradio
