By Courts Reporter
MBERENGWA— Police in the Midlands Province have launched a manhunt for a 30-year-old man who allegedly set four huts on fire at his in-laws’ homestead following a heated domestic dispute regarding his wife’s suspected infidelity.
The suspect, Absolom Zhou of Ngwenyama Village under Chief Mketi in Mberengwa, is currently on the ru0pn after fleeing the scene.
Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the incident, stating that the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) are investigating a case of malicious damage to property stemming from the August 30 arson
Pattack in Mutavisi Village, Chief Chingoma area.
According to law enforcement, Zhou engaged in a domestic dispute with his 28-year-old wife, Desollete Dube, after accusing her of unfaithfulness. Following the argument, Zhou packed his wife’s clothing and transported the items to her family’s homestead.
Upon arrival, Zhou confronted his mother-in-law, Esther Shoko, 45, and issued a direct threat, indicating that he intended to return later to destroy property at the homestead.
“Zhou is suspected to have returned later when no one was present and set four huts on fire,” Inspector Mahoko said.
Shoko, who was visiting nearby relatives at the time, observed mthick smoke rising from her homestead in the distance. She raised an alarm and rushed to the scene alongside family members. However, by the time they arrived, the fire had already engulfed all four structures. Their attempts to extinguish the blaze were unsuccessful, resulting in the total
Ĺpdestruction of all household property contained inside.
PThe authorities have appealed to the public for assistance in locating the suspect.
“We are appealing to members of the public who might have information on Zhou’s whereabouts to report to the near91qestpp police station,” Inspector Mahoko added.
Investigation into the matter remains ongoing.
