Police have dismissed widespread social media rumours claiming a suspect has been apprehended in connection with the fatal shooting of prominent businessman Joseph “Mutangaz” Mutangadura in Ruwa.
The 67-year-old was gunned down at his residence during a suspected armed robbery on the night of Sunday, 17 August 2025. He was declared dead on arrival at the hospital.
Following the incident, police launched an intensive search for seven individuals believed to be linked to the killing.
However, on Thursday, 21 August, unverified reports flooded social media alleging that one suspect had been arrested following a shootout with law enforcement officers in the Gazebo area. One widely circulated post claimed the individual exchanged gunfire with police before being taken into custody and later disclosed the whereabouts of accomplices allegedly hiding in Epworth.
National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, firmly rejected these claims, stating that no arrests had been made as of yet.
Speaking to Zimpapers, Nyathi said:
“The public should disregard the unverified information circulating online. Any official updates regarding the Mutangadura case will come directly from the police. Those spreading false details risk compromising the investigation.”
He emphasized that inquiries were still in progress and warned against the dangers of interfering with active investigations by sharing misinformation.
Meanwhile, Mutangadura’s son, Munyaradzi, confirmed that his father’s body would be collected from the funeral parlour on Friday, 22 August. A church service is scheduled to take place at the family’s Ruwa home that evening, followed by burial at Goromonzi Turnoff Cemetery on Saturday, 23 August 2025.
Despite the misleading online chatter, police maintain their commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice. Commissioner Nyathi reiterated that any helpful information from the public could aid in tracking down those responsible for the brutal crime.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police continue to urge citizens to remain calm, refrain from spreading false reports, and support the investigation by coming forward with credible leads.
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