Online Reporter
Sunday Mail Reporter
THE festive season, usually a time for glad tidings, saw a sudden chill grip as 47 murders were reported in only six days from December 20.
A stark contrast to the cheerful atmosphere, these killings unveiled the grim truth of violence and crime amidst celebrations.
Meanwhile, the roads turned treacherous as 77 people lost their lives in a string of 65 fatal accidents during the 12-day stretch from December 15 to 27.
These murders and road carnage are chilling reminders of the human capacity to err, and serve as a sobering reminder that even the most joyous occasions can be marred by senseless engagements.
The contrast between the festive spirit and these tragic events underscores the darker side of the festive season, tragically highlighted during a time meant for celebration and joy.
This is a reminder that not everyone experiences the same level of joy and happiness during this period, and that violence, crime and recklessness can mar even the most festive occasions.
The murders were inspired by vicious alcohol-infused arguments, fights over girlfriends, fights over Christmas presents, Christmas Day revenge missions and other related social activities associated with the festive season.
In a statement on Friday, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said: “The Zimbabwe Republic Police is concerned with the number of murder cases which are being recorded throughout the country.
“47 cases of murder have been received during the period 20th December 2024 to 26th December 2024.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police has established that the murder cases are emanating from disputes at beer drinking binges or sporting activities, family and community disputes during gatherings, attacks by unknown suspects while walking at night, the settling of scores during Christmas Day by individuals and groups and fighting over girlfriends, among others.”
Comm Nyathi said one of the cases occurred around 7pm at Machipisa Tuckshops in Mwenezi, Triangle, on Christmas Day, where Mastard Chauke (22) had a misunderstanding with Tongai Moyo after he bumped into him during a beer-drinking spree.
An infuriated Chauke then hurled a stone towards Moyo but missed the target.
He went on to hit Ostern Mangaru (29) on the chest. Mangaru fell to the ground and died on the spot.
On the same day, Comm Nyathi said, Learnmore Mudzengi (36) stabbed Sydney Mudzengi (21) to death with a Columbia knife following a misunderstanding over a token while playing snooker at the Musavezi Business Centre in Shurugwi.
“After committing the offence, the suspect fled from the scene and was later apprehended by the police for the due process of the law to take its course,” he said.
“On 26th of December 2024, at around 0100hrs and at a house in Kuwadzana 7, Harare, Nihipalakar Muyaya (22) allegedly assaulted his grandmother, Agnes Duri (70), with clenched fists and booted feet for not giving him a present during the Christmas period.
“The victim was later found lying lifeless in her room with blood coming out of her mouth and ears. The suspect was subsequently arrested.”
Comm Nyathi said police were investigating circumstances surrounding the death of Polite Nyauro (23), who was found dead at Chipfuvamiti Primary School in Makonde on December 26.
Nyauro had been reported missing after he had gone for a beer-drinking binge at Chipfuvamiti Business Centre in the company of his two brothers on Christmas Day.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges the public to find peaceful methods of resolving disputes or differences at the family and society levels,” he said.
“The church, traditional leaders and the general community are implored to come on board to ensure the public respects the sanctity of human life.
“The police will continue to engage communities to promote the culture of law-abiding citizens in all facets of life.”
Comm Nyathi revealed that there was a concerning increase in the number of fatal road traffic accidents during the festive season.
From December 15 to 27, 2024, 65 fatal accidents occurred, a significant rise from the 50 recorded in the same period last year.
The 77 lives lost on the roads so far this festive season compares to 71 in the previous year.
Furthermore, 401 people sustained injuries this year. The figure is slightly higher than the 393 recorded in the corresponding period of 2023.
Comm Nyathi attributed the cause of most traffic accidents to fatigue and negligent conduct by drivers.
He said on Unity Day, December 22, at least 106 road traffic accidents were recorded, with seven people killed and 38 others injured.
On Christmas Day, 104 road traffic accidents were recorded, with 13 people killed and 16 others injured.
Comm Nyathi said on Boxing Day, 87 road traffic accidents were recorded. In these accidents, 11 people were killed, while 40 others were injured.
