The family of the murdered traditional leader from Gumbu village in the Niani area has welcomed the arrest of two more suspects, calling it a step toward closure.
Vhamusanda Vho Andries Takalani Gumbu (40) was ambushed and gunned down outside his home in February 2023 at around 22:00. He was found with multiple gunshot wounds and declared dead at the scene.
His killing sparked violent protests in the area, during which several properties and a police van were set alight. Several community members were arrested in connection with the unrest and are still appearing in court.
Following a lengthy and intensive investigation, the police arrested four suspects between September 2023 and May 2025: Oscar Ramphabana (39), Rolivhuwa Ronald Ramaqno (34), Mulalo Masakona (42) and Lodwick Mahangwahaya (37).
In a major breakthrough, the police recently arrested one of the most wanted suspects, Salani Duncun Mudau (43), who was found hiding in Dzwerani village near Vuwani on Sunday, 29 June.
Last week, the police made further progress when they arrested two women believed to have masterminded the murder by allegedly financing the hit. The women were arrested in Manenzhe Bale and Masisi respectively.
The suspects, Ronewa Eunice Mukwevho (46) and Mavis Ramphabana, appeared in the Musina Magistrate's Court on Monday, 28 July. Their case was postponed to 6 August for bail applications.
The late traditional leader's wife, Ms Rudzani Mugobi, said that although the arrests had reopened old wounds, the family was relieved that some long-unanswered questions might finally be addressed.
"This is one of the worst times in my life. The pain I have will only heal when the guilty people are sentenced. The worst part of it is that we gave police the names my husband mentioned before he was killed, but they dragged their feet in arresting them. There are still some outstanding suspects in the case, but we have hope they will be arrested soon," she said.