Case Closed: Months-Long Hunt Concludes as All Joseph Mutangadura Murder Suspects Are Arrested
Police have confirmed the arrest of the seventh and final suspect in the brutal robbery and murder of prominent businessman Joseph Mutangadura. This concludes a months-long investigation that dismantled a violent gang following a major breakthrough involving a police shootout in Sanyati.
The Night of the Murder
On the night of August 17, 2025, a gang of seven men in balaclavas armed with pistols, hammers, and claw bars raided the 'Mutangadura Hideout' farm in Ruwa. A security guard, Bonus Kadiwa, was ambushed and subdued after investigating barking dogs. The gang tied his hands with his own shoelaces.
The attackers forced the guard around the property before breaking down the main door. Six robbers stormed the house, leaving one to guard Kadiwa. Inside, they located the businessman's 14-year-old son before breaking into the master bedroom where they encountered 67-year-old Joseph Mutangadura.
During the confrontation, a single gunshot was fired, striking Mr. Mutangadura in the chest and killing him instantly. The gang then ransacked the room for valuables while the victim's wife was present. Mr. Mutangadura was rushed to a clinic in Ruwa but was pronounced dead on arrival.
The Investigation
A significant breakthrough came with the arrest of Given Mandizadza on October 13 in Harare. A search of his vehicle yielded two pistols, multiple rounds of live ammunition, and explosives, helping to link the suspects to wider criminal activities.
The most critical breakthrough occurred after the arrest of Vengesai Jabulani Mutasa in Sanyati. Vengesai was involved in a shootout where he tragically killed a police officer. Police later confirmed through forensic analysis that the pistol he used was the same weapon used to murder Joseph Mutangadura, directly linking him to both crimes.
The Suspects
Over several weeks, CID Homicide detectives meticulously tracked and arrested all seven members of the gang:
- Phillip Mutasa (38): Arrested on Oct 3 in Gweru. He is the brother of Vengesai.
- Given Mandizadza (39): Arrested on Oct 13 in Harare.
- Philemon Anesu Machadu (33): Arrested alongside Mandizadza.
- Vengesai Jabulani Mutasa (41): Arrested in late Oct after a fatal shootout in Sanyati.
- Tariro Mutsamanye (34): Formally charged on Oct 31 while in custody for other robberies.
- Dexter Tinashe Mugaro (31): Also charged on Oct 31 while in custody for other cases.
- Webster Nhau (51): The final suspect, arrested on Nov 2 in Ruwa.
All suspects have been remanded in custody and advised to apply for bail at the High Court due to the severity of the charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Joseph Mutangadura was a prominent 67-year-old businessman who was robbed and murdered at his 'Mutangadura Hideout' farm in Ruwa on August 17, 2025.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police have arrested a total of seven suspects. The final suspect, Webster Nhau, was arrested on November 2, 2025.
A major breakthrough occurred after suspect Vengesai Jabulani Mutasa was involved in a shootout in Sanyati where he killed a police officer. The firearm he used was forensically linked to the murder of Joseph Mutangadura.
Yes, police confirmed that at least two of the suspects, Phillip Mutasa and Vengesai Jabulani Mutasa, are brothers. It is suspected that other members of the gang may also be related.
David (Solar Sales)