MATOBO – A tranquil village in Matobo was plunged into mourning on 30 October 2025, when a family became the victims of a horrific act allegedly fuelled by jealousy. Melissa Ndlovu, 23, lost her life, and her husband, Delight Nyathi, later succumbed to his injuries, after their shack was allegedly set ablaze. Their one-year-old child is currently battling for survival in intensive care.
The alleged perpetrator, Florence Ndlovu from Ntabazinduna, is currently on the run. Sources suggest that Florence was involved in a relationship with Delight Nyathi, a staunch Highlanders supporter, and allegedly acted out of rage upon discovering that he was living with another woman.
Neighbours recounted scenes of sheer horror as flames engulfed the wooden and iron-sheet shack that served as the young family’s home. Finding the door locked, they were forced to break through the walls to rescue the occupants. “Not knowing whether they were alive destroyed us emotionally,” said Nyathi’s brother, still visibly shaken by the ordeal.
After being pulled from the burning structure, a resident rushed the family to United Bulawayo Hospital. Initially, police officers blocked their path, but after a tense explanation, they were allowed to proceed. Melissa was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. Nyathi passed away the following day, leaving their young child fighting for his life.
The suspect’s continued absence has left both families devastated and frustrated, with some expressing concerns about the pace of the police investigation. “We want answers. We feel let down by the Matobo Police,” said one relative, reflecting the community’s desire for justice. The precise circumstances surrounding the deaths remain unclear, adding a layer of unease to the tragedy.
According to a family friend who shared the initial news, Florence allegedly poured fuel into the shack where Nyathi, who worked as an artisanal miner, resided. Melissa’s body was severely burnt, while Nyathi and the child sustained significant burns.
Family members revealed that they had not known Nyathi for very long, as he had been living with the Ndlovu family for approximately three years. “He never paid the bride price. They came here and left us a 100-dollar bill like that would bring our daughter back,” a grieving relative lamented, tears streaming down her face.
Another relative of Nyathi, speaking on condition of anonymity, shared the heart-wrenching experience of witnessing his brother’s final moments. “My younger brother died in my arms. The pain is unbearable. We hope the police catch this cold-hearted murderer and put her in jail forever. Our focus now is on the recovery of our son and grandchild,” he said.
Preparations are underway for the funerals of both Nyathi and Melissa. However, strained relations between the families mean that the couple will not be buried together, a poignant symbol of the fractured bonds in the wake of this devastating event.
Inspector Chiratidzo Dube of Matabeleland South confirmed the case and stated that the police are actively searching for Florence Ndlovu. He appealed to the public to remain calm and to resolve disputes peacefully, cautioning against taking the law into their own hands.
This tragedy has deeply affected the Matobo community, leaving residents to grapple with the aftermath of extreme jealousy and rage.
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