The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have moved to dismiss as false recent social media reports suggesting that a suspect has been arrested in connection with the brutal killing of prominent businessman Mr. Joseph Mutangadura.
The 67-year-old entrepreneur was gunned down at his home in Ruwa on Sunday night in what investigators believe was a suspected armed robbery. According to police, Mr. Mutangadura sustained critical injuries from gunfire and was rushed to a local medical facility, where he was unfortunately pronounced dead upon arrival.
In the wake of the tragedy, speculation spread rapidly across social media platforms, with some users claiming that police had already made a breakthrough in the case by arresting one of the alleged perpetrators. However, police have firmly denied these claims, describing them as unverified and misleading.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged members of the public to rely on official communication channels for updates on ongoing investigations. He emphasized that spreading false information not only hampers investigations but also risks jeopardizing potential leads that could bring perpetrators to justice.
“As the Zimbabwe Republic Police, we wish to categorically state that no suspect has been arrested in connection with the tragic murder of Mr. Mutangadura. Investigations are still in progress, and any reports suggesting otherwise are false. We appeal to the public to exercise restraint and allow due process to take its course,” Nyathi said.
He further urged citizens with credible information related to the incident to come forward and assist law enforcement, rather than relying on or spreading unverified claims.
News of the murder has left the Ruwa community and broader business circles in shock. Mr. Mutangadura, a respected businessman with interests in various sectors, was widely known for his entrepreneurial spirit and his role in local community development initiatives.
Police Refute Claims of Arrests in Mutangadura Murder Case
Neighbors described him as a “hardworking and humble man” who had supported numerous charitable causes. His sudden and violent death has not only robbed his family of a patriarch but has also left an irreplaceable void in the community.
“It is heartbreaking. We are still trying to process what has happened. He was someone who looked out for people and was always ready to lend a hand. To lose him in such a violent way is devastating,” said one neighbor, speaking on condition of anonymity.
The spread of false reports regarding arrests in high-profile cases has become a recurring challenge for law enforcement in Zimbabwe. Analysts warn that misinformation, particularly when it spreads on platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter), can cause unnecessary panic and complicate official investigations.
Digital analyst Tawanda Moyo noted that “false information often spreads faster than verified facts, especially in times of crisis. Once people believe an arrest has been made, potential witnesses may withhold crucial information, assuming the case is already solved. This delays justice.”
The police have repeatedly urged Zimbabweans to treat sensitive criminal cases with seriousness and to refrain from posting unverified information online.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, there have been growing calls for justice, with both community leaders and government officials assuring the public that every effort is being made to apprehend those responsible.
“The government will not allow criminal elements to terrorize law-abiding citizens. We are confident that our law enforcement agencies will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that justice is served in this case,” said a senior government official familiar with the investigation.
Authorities have also promised increased patrols and heightened security measures in residential areas to curb a recent spate of violent crimes, including armed robberies.
For now, police are urging calm as they continue their investigations. Assistant Commissioner Nyathi stressed that the public will be kept updated through official ZRP channels once significant developments are made.
“We understand the pain and anger surrounding this heinous act. But we also want to reassure citizens that we are pursuing every possible lead. When arrests are made, the public will be the first to know through official police statements. Until then, let us avoid speculation and support the process by sharing credible information only,” Nyathi added.
As investigations continue, the Mutangadura family is said to be making funeral arrangements, with details expected to be announced soon. Community members, business associates, and church leaders have begun paying tribute, describing Mr. Mutangadura as a visionary whose loss will be deeply felt for years to come.
While the family grieves, the Ruwa community remains gripped with unease, awaiting answers about who carried out the crime and why. For now, the search for justice continues, with the police promising that accountability will prevail once the suspects are apprehended.
Source- ZimEye
