Crime Reporter
The Zimbabwe Republic Police have arrested Thamsanqa Ndebele (26) and Euton Sebatha (36), both residents of Cowdray Park, in connection with the brutal murder of 23-year-old Inobubele Mhlanga.
The arrests were made on November 5, 2024, following a thorough investigation that implicated the duo in the heinous crime.
Mhlanga was discovered on the evening of November 4, around 8:30pm, near the TM turn off bus stop in Cowdray Park.
Passersby found her lying in a pool of blood with a fatal stab wound above her right breast and deep cuts on both hands.
She was rushed to Mpilo Hospital by a good Samaritan but tragically succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival.
Her body was later taken to the Mpilo Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination.
The police breakthrough came November 5, 2024, with the detention of a robbery suspect, Playmore Mpofu (27).
During interrogation, Mpofu admitted to frequently engaging in robberies with Ndebele and Sebatha in the Cowdray Park area.This confession led to further investigations, ultimately resulting in the arrest of Ndebele and Sebatha, aided by local residents' cooperation.
Ndebele confessed to attacking Mhlanga, stating that he and Sebatha stole her handbag, which contained US$30.
He revealed that Sebatha had stabbed Mhlanga when she recognised him, as they were neighbors. Police recovered a flick knife believed to be the murder weapon.
Bulawayo Province Police Spokesperson, Inspector Abednico Ncube commended the community for their critical role in solving the case.
"The active participation of the public was key in bringing these suspects to justice. It is deeply tragic that an innocent life was taken by individuals known to her, driven by greed," Inspector Ncube said.
In the wake of this crime, the police are urging residents to strengthen neighbourhood watch committees.
This initiative aims to enhance crime prevention, foster community unity, and prevent future tragedies. The arrests of Ndebele and Sebatha are expected to provide some measure of closure for Mhlanga’s grieving family.
