Police are conducting a large-scale manhunt in mountainous terrain here for a suspect linked to the murder of five members of the same family, including three minors and an elderly woman, in a brutal attack recently.
The National Police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the identities of the victims as 66-year-old Grace Zvitsva, Tendai Zvitsva (40), Loice Chiringaushe (37), and two young children, Takudzwa Kariva (5) and Tatenda Chirenje (2).
The circumstances of the killings in Guruve are still under investigation.
Commissioner Nyathi named the suspect as Anymore Zvitsva, who is now the target of a major search operation.
“Police are using drone technology and have deployed teams from the Support Unit, the Criminal Investigations Department, Canine and Horse Patrols, as well as the Intelligence Unit,” Nyathi stated.
He added that the suspect is believed to be hiding in a nearby mountainous area.
Authorities also disclosed that Anymore Zvitsva is linked to three other murder cases previously reported in Zimuna Village under Chief Bepura.
In a tragic silver lining, police confirmed that five of Grace Zvitsva’s grandchildren survived the attack.
Neighbours, alerted by noise, rushed to the scene and managed to rescue the children, who were not harmed.
The police have appealed to the public for any information that could lead to the arrest of the suspect.
“Investigations are ongoing, and we urge anyone with information to contact any nearest police station,” Commissioner Nyathi said.
The community of Guruve remains in shock as the multi-disciplinary police operation continues across the rugged landscape in pursuit of the suspect.
