Unlicensed Surgery Turns Deadly in Chitungwiza: Police Warn Public After Fatal Back-Alley Procedure
By Staff Reporter
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have issued a nationwide warning after a tragic incident in Chitungwiza where an unlicensed surgical procedure resulted in the death of Magret Gwamura (51).
Authorities arrested Douglas Mutore (40), who allegedly performed the illicit operation inside a residential home in Unit D, Seke.
Police reports state that on September 24, 2026, Mutore attempted to remove a growth from Gwamura’s throat using a standard surgical blade in an unsterilized environment. The operation led to fatal complications, and Gwamura died at the scene. Mutore reportedly fled but was later apprehended by police.
According to official law enforcement reports, the fatal incident occurred on September 24, 2026, when Mutore allegedly attempted to perform an invasive surgical operation to excise a pathological growth from Gwamura’s throat. Operating within the unsterilized environment of a suburban residence, the suspect utilized a standard surgical blade to execute the delicate procedure.
Tragedy struck mid-operation as the victim suffered catastrophic complications and died on the scene. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Mutore allegedly abandoned the victim and fled the premises in an attempt to evade law enforcement authorities.
Police detectives dispatched to the scene launched a comprehensive investigation, securing crucial physical evidence from the residential site. Investigating officers recovered an assortment of medical equipment, including surgical instruments, heavily blood-stained bandages, and various quantities of used pharmaceutical preparations.
Subsequent verification procedures conducted with medical regulatory authorities confirmed that Mutore was operating entirely outside the law, possessing no valid practicing certificates, medical licenses, or institutional accreditations required to administer clinical treatments or execute surgical procedures within Zimbabwe.
A search of the property uncovered surgical instruments, blood-stained bandages, and used pharmaceuticals. Medical authorities confirmed that Mutore had no valid medical license or accreditation.
The ZRP has strongly advised the public to:
- Verify healthcare providers’ credentials
- Seek treatment only from accredited medical institutions
- Report any suspected illegal medical practices to police immediately
