Second Suspect Arrested in Joseph ‘Mutangaz’ Mutangadura Murder Case, Arsenal of Weapons Recovered
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have made a major development in the high-profile murder of businessman Joseph ‘Mutangaz’ Mutangadura with the arrest of a second suspect, Given Mandizadza, on October 13, 2025. Authorities recovered a significant cache of firearms, live ammunition, and explosives during his apprehension, highlighting the dangerous and organized nature of the criminal operation behind the attack.
Mandizadza has since been arraigned at the Harare Magistrates’ Court on charges including murder and armed robbery, as police continue to search for additional accomplices implicated by the first suspect, Phillip Mutasa. The ZRP has praised public cooperation in the investigation and urged anyone with further information to come forward to ensure all perpetrators are brought to justice.
The Arrest
A second suspect has been arrested in connection with the brutal murder of prominent Ruwa businessman Joseph Mutangadura, who was killed at his Hideout on Dunstan Road this past August. The arrest of Given Mandizadza (34) follows the earlier detention of another suspect, Phillip Mutasa.
National Police Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the details: “On October 13, detectives from CID Homicide received information on the whereabouts of the second suspect. Acting on the tip, the detectives tracked the suspect to the intersection of Robert Mugabe Road and Julius Nyerere Way, Harare, where the suspect was subsequently arrested.”
Arsenal of Weapons Seized
Police uncovered a veritable arsenal in the suspect's possession, raising the stakes of the investigation. Commissioner Nyathi detailed the alarming findings seized from a white Isuzu vehicle used by the suspect.
“During the arrest, police recovered two pistols, one with an empty magazine and another loaded with seven live rounds, three 32 long live cartridges, and two fuses... two explosives, a baby grinder, and a black monkey hat.”
The Investigation
With two suspects now in custody, police have signaled an intensification of their investigation to bring everyone involved in the robbery and murder of the 67-year-old businessman to justice. CID Homicide detectives have been pivotal in progressing the case.
Commissioner Nyathi concluded with a firm assurance to the public: “The recovery of these weapons and the arrest of a second suspect demonstrates our unwavering commitment to tackling violent crime. We continue to urge anyone with further information to come forward, as our investigations remain active to ensure total justice is served.”
The Investigation & FAQs
Two suspects have been apprehended by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in connection with the robbery and murder of Joseph "Mutangazi" Mutangadura. Phillip Mutasa, aged 38, was arrested on October 3, 2025, in Mkoba 6, Gweru, following a tip-off. He allegedly confessed to participating in the crime and implicated seven other accomplices. The second suspect, Given Mandizadza, aged 34, was arrested on October 13, 2025, in Harare. Police recovered firearms, live ammunition, explosives, and other items from his vehicle. Both suspects have been arraigned on multiple charges, including murder and armed robbery.
Yes. Phillip Mutasa implicated seven accomplices who remain at large. The ZRP continues to conduct a manhunt for these individuals. Authorities have asked the public to share any relevant information while cautioning against spreading unverified rumors that could hinder the investigation.
On the night of August 17, 2025, seven masked robbers armed with pistols, claw bars, and hammers stormed Mutangadura Hideout in Ruwa. They overpowered a security guard, tied him up, and forced their way into the house where Joseph Mutangadura, aged 67, and his wife were in bed. The robbers shot Mutangadura in the stomach, ransacked the home, and stole cash and valuables. Both were taken to Eden Hospital, where Mutangadura was pronounced dead, while his wife survived. The incident shocked the community and sparked widespread public discussion.
Although the case was initially categorized as a robbery, several factors raise doubts. The assailants specifically asked for a description of Mutangadura before entering the home. They left most valuables untouched, taking only a cheap cellphone. Mutangadura reportedly offered to guide the gang to other money, but they refused and shot him instead. These inconsistencies suggest that the murder may have been premeditated and not motivated solely by financial gain.
Speculation among the public and in media forums suggests the possibility of a contract killing. Potential motives discussed include business disputes, personal vendettas, or revenge related to Mutangadura’s various business ventures. The organized nature of the attack, along with the firearms and explosives recovered, supports the theory that the crime was more than a simple robbery.
Joseph Mutangadura had recently reconciled with his wife, Patience, just two months before his death. She was present during the attack but survived. The couple had previously divorced, and his stepsons revealed she was not their biological mother, which fueled public speculation. The timing of the reconciliation and the violent nature of the crime has prompted discussions about possible personal or family-related motives.
The ZRP has not officially confirmed a motive. However, the arrests of Mutasa and Mandizadza, the recovered firearms and explosives, and the confession implicating additional accomplices indicate that the group was highly organized. Police continue to investigate and track down the remaining suspects. Authorities have cautioned the public against spreading rumors to avoid compromising the investigation.
Mutangadura, a prominent businessman and Zanu-PF member, was buried at Goromonzi Turnoff Cemetery on August 24, 2025. There was a request for national hero status by the Zanu-PF Mashonaland East Province, but no further official announcement has been made regarding a state funeral. His death continues to be widely discussed in the media and among the public due to the circumstances surrounding the crime.
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