Demand for justice after grisly discovery of 2 elderly women murdered

By Tinei Tuhwe 

THE Chegutu community is demanding government action following the brutal murder and suspected rape of two elderly women from the Pfupajena suburb, whose lifeless bodies were found tied with ropes and bearing deep head wounds.

The bodies of Sekai Antonio (59) and Alice Zhuwao (54), two neighbours who went missing recently while fetching firewood, were found last Sunday following a vigorous search around Stockdale farm.

Their lifeless bodies were found in the bushes sparking widespread outrage and grief.

Speaking to NewZimbabwe.com, Tapfumanei Gupi, Sekai’s son, described the events leading up to the discovery.

“My mother and Zhuwao left home early Friday morning to fetch firewood.

“When they didn’t return, the community came together to search for them.

“Tragically, their bodies were found with severe injuries, including deep head wounds and multiple bruises,” he said.

Gupi highlighted that the families and community are now calling on the government to take decisive action inorder to prevent such tragedies in the future.

“We urge the authorities to impose life sentences on murderers, replace corrupt police officers, provide electricity to the area, prohibit bail for violent offenders, and restrict access to weapons.

“The Chegutu community is calling for immediate action to flush out gold panners (makorokoza) believed to be linked to the murders,” he urged.

Edina Ndaranira, Zhuwao’s daughter, revealed that her mother had been raped, citing the discovery of her inner garments near her body.

“The perpetrators tied them up with rope, facing downwards.

” It’s heartbreaking to think that these elders were brutally murdered while trying to provide for their families.”

The deceased’s neighbour Alice Mukumba also pleaded with the government and ZESA to provide electricity to the area.

She explained that the lack of electricity and high cost of gas in the area forces people to walk long distances to collect firewood as an alternative, leading to such tragedies.

 Additionally, she urged the government to stop granting bail to violent offenders and to restrict the use of weapons, in order to create a safer and healthier environment.”

Mukumba also emphasised the need for a safer environment.

 “We urge the police to take action against these criminals and protect our community,” she said

The victims’ remains have been transported to Chegutu Hospital for post-mortem examinations. Police investigations are ongoing.