In a significant ruling, Cuthbert Mupfuki, a 37-year-old police officer from Buhera, was sentenced to 15 years in prison by the High Court for the murder of his wife, Brenda Manyara. The tragic incident, which occurred on October 10, 2023, has drawn attention to the critical issue of domestic violence.
Mupfuki, a member of the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s Support Unit, was found guilty under the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act. The court revealed that Mupfuki had paid 30 head of cattle as reparation to his wife’s family, a gesture noted by Judge Isaac Muzenda during sentencing.
Details emerged during the trial that on the night of the incident, Mupfuki accused Manyara of infidelity, which fueled a violent confrontation. Witnesses, including Manyara’s niece Constance Gwemba, described the harrowing moments leading up to the tragedy. Gwemba testified that she heard screams for help but found the door locked. Looking through a window, she saw Mupfuki confronting Manyara.
In the aftermath, Mupfuki left the scene, stating it was better for him to be in prison than to live with a “cheating” wife. Manyara was discovered unresponsive, and a post-mortem confirmed that her death was due to severe trauma.
Mupfuki’s daughter, Barbra, also recounted the frightening events, including her mother’s cries during the attack. Villager Chipo Madidi, who was called to the scene, found Manyara’s body and reported Mupfuki’s admission of guilt over the phone.
The case took another turn when Joseph Murwisi, the man Mupfuki believed Manyara was seeing, testified about being assaulted by Mupfuki that same evening. Despite suffering injuries, Murwisi managed to escape and later witnessed the community’s grief over Manyara’s death.
This case highlights the urgent need for society to address domestic violence and support victims. The court’s decision serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of such actions and the importance of seeking help in abusive situations.
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