By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
A wave of anger and frustration has erupted across Zimbabwe’s social media platforms following the fatal shooting of a local worker by his Chinese employers in Mutoko an incident many say reflects a disturbing pattern of abuse and impunity involving some Chinese nationals operating in the country.
According to reports, the tragedy occurred after the worker approached his employers to demand payment for overdue wages.
The confrontation allegedly turned violent, resulting in the man being shot and his body dumped nearby.
Four Chinese nationals were later arrested in connection with the killing, though an official police statement is yet to be released.
The news, which first surfaced on X (formerly Twitter) via the account Zim-Celebs, quickly went viral, sparking outrage among Zimbabweans online.
Users flooded the platform with emotional reactions, condemning the continued mistreatment of locals by some foreign employers.
“We are now at their mercies — these fools need to be jailed, not deported,” posted user @alista_mapa.
Another user, @Words10daiWrote, questioned, “Why do so many Chinese in Zimbabwe have access to guns?” while @BhudhiGhivhi added bitterly, “This Chinese chap who shot a Zimbabwean worker for asking for his salary will get a $50 fine and a business-class ticket back to China. Zimbabwean lives are simply worthless.”
The latest killing has reignited debate over the behaviour of some Chinese investors in Zimbabwe, with citizens recalling previous incidents.
In 2020, a Chinese mine manager in Gweru allegedly shot two workers during a wage dispute, and in 2022, another Chinese national appeared in court for assaulting an employee in Hwange.
Critics say these recurring cases expose a worrying pattern of exploitation and violence.
Labour unions and civil society groups have echoed the public’s outrage.
The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) condemned the act, calling it “a callous murder that highlights ongoing abuse of Zimbabwean workers by some foreign employers.”
Prominent lawyer and opposition figure Fadzayi Mahere also weighed in, directly tagging the Chinese Embassy in Harare and demanding answers: “Dear @China_Amb_Zim, are you aware of this incident? What’s your official position on it?”
Online, many users called for justice and government accountability.
As the investigation continues, Zimbabweans are demanding tougher labour laws, stricter firearm controls, and a commitment to prosecuting offenders locally.
For many, the Mutoko killing has become a symbol of a deeper national frustration one that reflects both economic vulnerability and the perceived erosion of justice.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is yet to comment.