Bulawayo – A two-month manhunt has ended with the arrest of Nanzelela Ncube, a 28-year-old fugitive from Hope Fountain, on the outskirts of Bulawayo, who is accused of the brutal murder of his neighbour, Zama Dube (63), in a fit of jealous rage.
The incident, which has deeply affected the normally tranquil community of Hope Fountain in Umguza, occurred on 2 February 2025, and stemmed from Ncube’s unfounded accusations that Dube was having an affair with his late brother’s wife.
Acting Bulawayo police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele detailed the events leading to the tragic death. “The now deceased Zama Dube (63) of the same village… was at his home outside the gate planting flowers when he was confronted by the accused person who accused him of having an affair with his late brother’s wife,” she explained.
The confrontation quickly escalated into a violent assault. Ncube reportedly grabbed a log and struck Dube multiple times, inflicting severe head wounds. The attack occurred in front of Dube’s 15-year-old daughter, leaving her deeply traumatised.
Following the brutal assault, neighbours rushed Dube to Mpilo Hospital. However, despite the best efforts of medical staff, he succumbed to his injuries on 11 February 2025. Initially, police had opened an attempted murder docket, but this was subsequently upgraded to murder following Dube’s death.
In the wake of the attack, Ncube vanished, evading authorities for nearly two months. The teenager’s uncle revealed his niece remains haunted by the events, occasionally screaming at night. He said the girl, a pupil at Amhlophe High School, has not received any professional counselling.
The breakthrough in the case came on 9 April, when police received a crucial tip-off that led them to Ncube’s grandmother’s homestead. Asst Insp Msebele described the operation that led to Ncube’s capture: “The police proceeded to carry out a raid… and the accused was not located. Suddenly, the accused person was heard talking at their neighbour’s homestead. An ambush was laid… he tried to run, but police gave chase and managed to arrest him.”
Ncube, also known as “Sigananda”, which translates to “Chigananda” in Shona, is now being held at Hillside Police Station, facing a murder charge.
Police have praised the vigilance and cooperation of the Hope Fountain community, whose information proved vital in bringing the alleged killer to justice.
“We urge members of the public to desist from violent conduct but rather engage third parties and solve their disputes amicably. We also appreciate members of the public for working with police by supplying information that led to the arrest of the accused person,” added Ast Insp Msebele.
The tragic events have left a lasting scar on the Hope Fountain community. Beyond the loss of Zama Dube, the trauma inflicted on his 15-year-old daughter is a significant concern. The teenager witnessed the brutal assault that ultimately led to her father’s death and, according to her uncle, remains deeply affected by the experience. He revealed that she is haunted by the events, occasionally screaming at night, and has not yet received any professional counselling to help her cope with the trauma.
