Teen Stabs Worshippers at All-Night Prayer Vigil, Killing Two in Chikombedzi

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

A solemn night of worship in Zimbabwe’s Chikombedzi area turned into a scene of horror when a 19-year-old allegedly attacked worshippers with a knife, killing two people and injuring others. The incident, which has left the community in shock, occurred during an all-night prayer service in Mashavele Village, Chief Gezani area, on Sunday, 3 August 2025.

The Attack at the Prayer Vigil

According to police reports, the suspect, identified as Liberty Sibanda, had been in his room during the vigil, which was organised to remember a deceased relative. Around midnight, while congregants were gathered by a fire to keep warm, Sibanda reportedly emerged without warning and stabbed one man in the neck.

When fellow worshippers rushed to restrain him, the teenager is said to have turned on them, stabbing two others in the back. The wounded were taken to Chikombedzi Mission Hospital, where they received treatment and were later discharged. Tragically, another victim later died from injuries sustained during the attack.

Swift Arrest and Court Proceedings

Police arrested Sibanda soon after the incident and charged him with two counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder. He appeared before the Chikombedzi Magistrates’ Court, where he was remanded in custody pending further hearings. His next court appearance has been scheduled for 21 August 2025.

Law enforcement officials have not yet confirmed the motive behind the attack, leaving residents grappling with unanswered questions.

Another Knife Attack Shocks the Region

The tragedy at Mashavele Village came just days after a separate stabbing rocked nearby Mukuwo Village, also in the Chikombedzi area. In that case, a man armed with a knife reportedly stormed a funeral gathering and fatally stabbed Sithokozile Siwawa, a 46-year-old mourner.

Three other attendees who tried to stop the attacker were seriously injured and rushed to Chikombedzi Mission Hospital and Masvingo General Hospital for treatment. The suspect in that case fled the scene and remains at large. Police have launched a manhunt and are appealing for public assistance in locating him.

Community Reeling from Violence

The back-to-back attacks have sent shockwaves through Chikombedzi and surrounding villages, where residents are now expressing fear over the sudden rise in violent incidents. Many have called for tighter security at public gatherings and stronger community policing measures to prevent similar tragedies.

Speaking to local reporters, village elders condemned the attacks, describing them as acts of “senseless brutality” that have not only taken lives but also shaken the spiritual and cultural fabric of the community.

Police Appeal for Calm and Vigilance

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) authorities have urged the public to remain calm while investigations continue. They stressed the importance of resolving disputes peacefully and warned that violent behaviour will be met with the full force of the law.

A ZRP spokesperson reiterated that anyone with information on either case should come forward to assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

The Road Ahead

While Liberty Sibanda awaits trial, the affected families are left to mourn their loved ones, and survivors are grappling with both physical and emotional trauma. Community leaders have called for counselling support for those directly affected, alongside renewed efforts to foster unity and non-violence in the region.

As the August 21 court date approaches, all eyes will be on Chikombedzi’s Magistrates’ Court, where prosecutors are expected to outline the full details of the case.

Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org