By Patience Gondo
The Zimbabwe Republic Police have intensified a manhunt for Venia Dumba after his girlfriend was found dead with head injuries at Moses Nyoni Homestead in Munhundangwa Village, Rutenga, hours after a domestic dispute.
ZRP said on Monday November 17, Dumba fled the homestead shortly before the discovery of the body, prompting investigators to list him as the prime suspect.
According to police, the altercation began around 2100 hours on November 16 when the woman confronted Dumba over her missing birth certificate.
She intended using it for her passport application at Rutenga Registry Offices.
The argument became heated enough to awaken the victim’s sister, who intervened and persuaded the pair to settle the matter before the family retired to their rooms.
Police said the victim was last seen alive shortly after the dispute was diffused.
At approximately 0600 hours the following morning, the sister walked outside and discovered the woman lying on the ground with blood on her head.
Investigators cordoned off the scene and collected preliminary evidence while awaiting post mortem results, which authorities say will guide the next stage.
The ZRP has appealed to anyone with information on Dumba’s whereabouts to contact the nearest police station immediately.
ZRP said the suspect is believed to still be within Rutenga or neighbouring areas and that all information, including anonymous tips, will be treated confidentially.
Zimbabwe has recorded a steady rise in domestic violence cases reported to police in recent years, prompting law enforcement agencies to intensify public awareness campaigns on early reporting, protection orders and available support services.