By a Correspondent
The burial of Zimbabwe Republic Police traffic officer Sergeant Portia Dzanwa (pictured) has been delayed amid a dispute between her family and in-laws over compensation following her fatal shooting in Southley Park, Harare.
Sgt Dzanwa, 36, was allegedly shot dead by her husband, former Special Constabulary officer Pharaoh Dombodzvuku, 52, following a domestic dispute linked to her teenage daughter.
More than a week after the tragedy, Sgt Dzanwa’s body remains unburied, with relatives saying burial arrangements have been stalled by demands for compensation, commonly referred to as mhere, and unresolved concerns surrounding the circumstances of her death.
A close relative said the family was still grieving and seeking answers before proceeding with the burial.
“We are still in pain. Sergeant Dzanwa is yet to be buried,” the relative said.
The relative alleged that the deceased’s in-laws were demanding compensation and had so far rejected attempts to resolve the dispute.
“They tried to engage the police, but the in-laws are sticking to their guns,” the source said.
According to police investigations, Dombodzvuku allegedly sexually abused Dzanwa’s 16-year-old daughter, who later reported the matter to her mother.
The couple sought counselling from Dombodzvuku’s brother, Trymore. Police allege that during the meeting, Dombodzvuku requested privacy and asked his brother to move away from the vehicle where he and Dzanwa were seated.
Moments later, Trymore heard two gunshots. When he returned to the vehicle, he found Dzanwa dead and Dombodzvuku unconscious.
Police believe Dombodzvuku shot his wife before turning the firearm on himself.
He survived the self-inflicted gunshot wound and is receiving treatment at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital under police guard as investigations continue.
Authorities have not yet announced when Sgt Dzanwa’s burial is expected to take place.
