Sandra Phiri
The Zimbabwe Republic Police have arrested Phamani Sibanda, a 43-year-old suspected mental health patient, for killing five people and injuring two others in a violent attack in Madlambuzi, Matabeleland South Province, on August 20, 2025.
In a statement, National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said, the suspect “ran amok, became violent and attacked seven people with a Mopani log, a blunt object, and an unknown sharp object while moving aggressively around the village.” The attack was indiscriminate, targeting anyone the suspect encountered.
The victims, identified by their next of kin, include Elliot Khupe (101), Butho Tshuma (97), Constance Sibanda (66), Tiffan Surprise Ndlovu (6), and Catra Matsika (72), all residents of Bellas Village or Central Village in Madlambuzi. Five victims died at the scene, while two women, aged 90 and 41, sustained injuries and are receiving treatment at Madlambuzi Clinic and Plumtree District Hospital.
Commissioner Nyathi urged the public to address mental health concerns promptly, stating, “The Zimbabwe Republic Police implores the public to quickly refer mental patients to medical institutions for treatment and to monitor their medical process and general behaviour in order to curb violent tendencies.”
He encouraged reporting concerns to the National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631, via WhatsApp at 0712 800197, or at the nearest police station.
The Madlambuzi community mourns the loss, as authorities highlight the need for mental health awareness to prevent future tragedies.
