Suspect Arrested in Murder of Businessman Joseph Mutangadura
Police have arrested a prime suspect in the murder of prominent Ruwa businessman Joseph Mutangadura, who was shot and killed during a home invasion in August. The arrest marks a major breakthrough in a case that has gripped the nation, with questions still swirling around the ultimate motive for the attack.
The Home Invasion
On the night of August 17, 2025, a gang of masked robbers armed with pistols and tools stormed Mutangadura’s farm, known as the Mutangadura Hideout, in Ruwa. The assailants overpowered a security guard, tied him up, and forced their way into the house where the 67-year-old businessman was in bed. They subsequently shot Mutangadura in the stomach before ransacking the property.
Joseph Mutangadura was rushed to Eden Hospital in Windsor, Ruwa, but was tragically pronounced dead on arrival. His wife, Patience Dambudzo, who was present during the attack, survived with critical injuries.
A Major Breakthrough
In a statement on October 4, 2025, police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest of Phillip Mutasa, 38. Detectives from CID Homicide in Harare, acting on a tip-off, tracked Mutasa to Mkoba Six in Gweru and arrested him on October 3rd.
Following his arrest, Mutasa allegedly implicated seven accomplices who are now on the run. Commissioner Nyathi stated that a nationwide manhunt has been launched to bring the remaining suspects to justice as investigations continue.
Who Was Joseph Mutangadura?
Known affectionately as "Mutangaz," Joseph Mutangadura was a major figure in Zimbabwe's meat industry. He owned a chain of butcheries and abattoir services, including the popular Mutangaz Panyama and Lisheen Estate, creating a vital link between rural livestock farmers and urban markets.
Mutangadura was buried at Goromonzi Cemetery following a funeral service in Harare. Reports from the service noted that he was survived by 28 children. His son, Munyaradzi Mutangadura, spoke publicly about the family's devastating loss.
Unanswered Questions
While the incident was initially reported as a robbery, details have sparked skepticism. Family members and some reports noted that despite demanding cash, the attackers shot Mutangadura multiple times but left with only a cheap cellphone. This has led to speculation that the motive may have been a targeted assassination disguised as a robbery.
Public attention has also focused on the couple's relationship. Reports indicated that Mutangadura and his wife had been experiencing marital strain due to infidelity allegations, which had led to a temporary separation. Though recently reconciled, their relationship was reportedly still tense, and police have seized his wife's cellphone as part of the ongoing investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Joseph Mutangadura ("Mutangaz") was a prominent 67-year-old Zimbabwean businessman in the meat and agriculture industry, based in Ruwa.
He was murdered at his home, the Mutangadura Hideout in Ruwa, on the night of August 17, 2025.
Yes, police arrested one suspect, Phillip Mutasa (38), in Gweru on October 3, 2025. He has reportedly implicated seven other suspects who are still at large.
According to reports from his funeral, Joseph Mutangadura was survived by 28 children.
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