By Sukoluhle Ndlovu
Six people have died in a series of domestic dispute-related incidents recorded across Zimbabwe in four days, with three children among the victims and several others sustaining serious injuries.
The incidents, which included murder, attempted murder and suspected suicide, occurred between September 21 and 23, according to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP).
Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the cases were a cause for concern.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is concerned with cases of murder, attempted murder and suicide involving couples and family members arising from domestic disputes. Some of the incidents have resulted in loss of lives and serious injuries,” Nyathi said.
In Glen View 3, Harare, a couple, Nyasha Mhungu (35) and Olga Muzhingi (30), were found dead in their bedroom on 23 September 2026
In the first incident, recorded on September 21 at Malisa Village in Zhombe, Kwekwe, Emily Takadii, 23, allegedly had a misunderstanding with her husband over suspected infidelity.
Nyathi said Takadii allegedly gave a poisonous substance to her two sons, Shyne Tavatya, six, and Sean Tavatya, nine, before ingesting the same substance herself.
The two boys died after being admitted to Kwekwe District Hospital, while their mother remains in critical condition at the same hospital.
In Glen View 3, Harare, a couple was found dead in their bedroom on September 23 following reported marital disputes.
The deceased were identified as Nyasha Mhungu, 35, and Olga Muzhingi, 30.
“Police are conducting investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths,” Nyathi said.
In another incident on September 22, Robert Tashinga, 50, allegedly attacked his wife, Nollent Sinosi, 36, with an axe following a misunderstanding over alleged infidelity at Marowa Village in Mukumbura.
Nyathi said Sinosi died at the scene, while Tashinga allegedly fled.
Meanwhile, police arrested Kudakwashe Rangarirai, 27, in connection with a murder and attempted murder case in Omeath Extension, Mvurwi, on September 22.
Rangarirai allegedly killed his two-year-old stepson, Prince Owen Mugari, and seriously injured his 23-year-old wife.
Nyathi said the suspect subsequently ingested a poisonous substance and ss admitted to Mvurwi Hospital, while his wife is receiving treatment in critical condition at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare.
In Nyamhunga, Kariba, police arrested Emmanuel Mpofu, 33, following an alleged attempted murder in which he severely assaulted his 25-year-old wife after a dispute over alleged infidelity.
The woman is admitted to Kariba Hospital for treatment.
The latest cases have renewed concerns over the escalation of domestic disputes into fatal violence, with police urging families to seek help before conflicts turn violent.
Nyathi urged couples and family members to resolve disputes peacefully and through lawful means.
“Members of the public are encouraged to seek counselling and involve trusted third parties, including traditional leaders, church leaders and professional counsellors, when faced with marital or domestic challenges,” he said.
In a matter that left the Dzivarasekwa community in shock, Dr Martin Muduwa, a Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission Commissioner, died after he was attacked by an axe following a domestic dispute. His wife, Lyliosa Chirara, allegedly took poison and died shortly afterwards.
