GUTU – Lloyd Mutsengi, the 50-year-old Gutu man wanted by police in connection with a brutal rape and murder at a Matobo mine, has joined his ancestors after committing suicide, bringing a tragic end to the intensive manhunt launched by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP).
Mutsengi, who was accused of stealing a firearm, fatally shooting a woman who rejected his advances, and raping her companion, reportedly shot himself in the chest last Thursday at his homestead in Jaravani Village, under Chief Gutu in Gutu District.
Acting Masvingo Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, confirmed the incident to The Mirror, stating that no foul play is suspected. Mutsengi’s body has been taken to Gutu Mission Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
The ZRP had previously issued a public appeal for assistance in locating Mutsengi, posting on their official X (formerly Twitter) account, seeking information related to charges of murder, rape, and theft of a firearm.
Details of the Heinous Crimes
Tragically, one of the women bravely resisted Mutsengi’s advances, but her resistance came at the ultimate price. Mutsengi allegedly shot her dead on the spot. The horror did not end there. Mutsengi is further accused of sexually assaulting the second woman before fleeing into the night, armed with the stolen rifle.
Flight and Final Moments
Following the heinous crimes, Mutsengi fled Matobo and returned to his rural home in Gutu, taking the stolen rifle with him.
On Thursday morning, he reportedly met his son at Mpandawana Growth Point, and the two travelled home together. Upon arrival, Mutsengi asked his son to visit their neighbours to borrow paper for rolling tobacco.
While his son was approximately 100 meters away, he heard a gunshot. Rushing back to the homestead, he discovered Mutsengi lying dead in a pool of blood, the rifle beside him.
Community Outrage and Calls for Increased Security
The initial reports of the rape and murder at the Matobo mine sparked outrage and fear, with residents demanding increased security measures at mining operations. The fact that a security guard, entrusted with protecting the safety of others, could allegedly commit such heinous acts deeply shook public confidence.
Many called for stricter security protocols and more thorough screening of personnel employed at mines in the area.
A Disturbing Case
“This is a disturbing case of extreme violence and sexual abuse,” the police stated on X when appealing for information on Mutsengi’s whereabouts.
The ZRP had deployed additional resources to the area and worked closely with local communities to gather intelligence and track down the suspect.
While Mutsengi’s death brings an end to the manhunt, it offers little solace to the victims and their families.

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