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Murder suspect ruled unfit to stand trial
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The trial of Bright Zhantali, a suspected serial rapist and murderer, has been suspended following a psychiatric evaluation that deemed him mentally unfit to stand trial. Harare magistrate Dennis Mangosi made the ruling, resulting in Zhantali's admission to Chikurubi Maximum Psychiatric Unit for treatment and confinement.
Zhantali faces three charges of murder, with accusations involving gruesome attacks on women. Prosecutor Rufaro Chonzi outlined chilling details of the alleged crimes.
Alleged Crimes
On July 17, 2020, Zhantali reportedly lured 24-year-old Ms. Priscilla Chidhakwa under the pretense of paying her US$10 for sexual services. Instead of taking her to his home in Mabvuku, he allegedly diverted to Donnybrook Race Course, where he raped and killed her. Her body was later discovered tied with pieces of blankets and discarded in a trench.
On December 7, 2021, Zhantali allegedly murdered Ms. Manyara Chisora (46) under the guise of assisting her to secure land to rent. After showing her the property, he is accused of luring her to her home, raping her, and striking her fatally with an axe. He reportedly stole groceries, clothes, and a cellphone before fleeing.
Zhantali's third alleged victim, Ms. Spiwe Nyamoto (50), was killed after he hired her for sexual services. He is accused of raping and murdering her, then dumping her body at Mabvuku sewage ponds.
Police reports indicate that Zhantali confessed to over 10 murders, with several linked to Marondera.
History of Psychological Evaluation
The current suspension of his indictment is not the first instance of concerns over Zhantali's mental state. In November 2022, a previous trial was halted after he displayed erratic behavior in court. Justice Roger Manyangadze ordered his psychiatric evaluation, which eventually led to his current committal.
Community Impact
The allegations against Zhantali have sent shockwaves through the affected communities, with families and residents expressing outrage and grief over the tragic loss of life. The ongoing psychiatric assessment delays any further legal proceedings, raising questions about the balance between justice and mental health considerations in cases of severe criminal conduct.
Zhantali will remain under psychiatric care until deemed fit to face the charges.
Zhantali faces three charges of murder, with accusations involving gruesome attacks on women. Prosecutor Rufaro Chonzi outlined chilling details of the alleged crimes.
Alleged Crimes
On July 17, 2020, Zhantali reportedly lured 24-year-old Ms. Priscilla Chidhakwa under the pretense of paying her US$10 for sexual services. Instead of taking her to his home in Mabvuku, he allegedly diverted to Donnybrook Race Course, where he raped and killed her. Her body was later discovered tied with pieces of blankets and discarded in a trench.
On December 7, 2021, Zhantali allegedly murdered Ms. Manyara Chisora (46) under the guise of assisting her to secure land to rent. After showing her the property, he is accused of luring her to her home, raping her, and striking her fatally with an axe. He reportedly stole groceries, clothes, and a cellphone before fleeing.
Police reports indicate that Zhantali confessed to over 10 murders, with several linked to Marondera.
History of Psychological Evaluation
The current suspension of his indictment is not the first instance of concerns over Zhantali's mental state. In November 2022, a previous trial was halted after he displayed erratic behavior in court. Justice Roger Manyangadze ordered his psychiatric evaluation, which eventually led to his current committal.
Community Impact
The allegations against Zhantali have sent shockwaves through the affected communities, with families and residents expressing outrage and grief over the tragic loss of life. The ongoing psychiatric assessment delays any further legal proceedings, raising questions about the balance between justice and mental health considerations in cases of severe criminal conduct.
Zhantali will remain under psychiatric care until deemed fit to face the charges.
Source - The Herald
