A tragic and violent incident unfolded in Madlambuzi, Matabeleland South, on Wednesday, August 20, when a 43-year-old man—believed to be suffering from mental illness—allegedly went on a deadly rampage, killing five people and injuring two others.
According to Commissioner Paul Nyathi, spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the suspect, identified as Phamani Sibanda, randomly attacked villagers while moving through the area in a highly aggressive state.
He was reportedly armed with a Mopani tree log, a blunt object, and a sharp instrument, which he used to strike individuals he came across.
Fatalities and Injuries
Five people were pronounced dead at the scene. The victims include:
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Elliot Khupe (101),
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Butho Tshuma (97), a woman,
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Constance Sibanda (66), a woman,
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Tiffan Surprise Ndlovu (6), a young girl,
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Catra Matsika (72).
All except Matsika were residents of Bellas Village; Matsika lived in Central Village.
Two other women, aged 90 and 41, survived the attack but sustained serious injuries. They are currently receiving medical care at Madlambuzi Clinic and Plumtree District Hospital.
Police Urge Mental Health Vigilance
In the aftermath of the attack, Commissioner Nyathi called on communities to take a proactive role in managing mental health cases. He stressed the importance of ensuring that individuals exhibiting signs of mental illness receive proper care and supervision.
He also encouraged the public to report potentially dangerous situations promptly to authorities via the National Complaints Desk (0242 703631), WhatsApp (0712 800197), or their nearest police station.
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