Man commits suicide after accusing wife of witchcraft and infidelity

A 41-year-old man from Burnside, Bulawayo, was found hanging in his garage on Sunday, following a heated altercation with his wife over allegations of infidelity.

David Mujuru was discovered by his nephew, who had gone to unlock the garage to retrieve his grandmother's car. Mujuru's mother, 71-year-old Beauty Mutswangwa, alerted the police after encountering the distressing scene.

Bulawayo Deputy Provincial Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, confirmed the incident, stating that Mujuru's actions followed allegations that his wife, Sibonginkosi Moyo, had been unfaithful. Mujuru had recently survived a car accident, which he claimed was the result of a curse from his wife and her alleged lover.

Mujuru left a handwritten note in IsiNdebele, accusing his wife and her alleged lover of seeking to harm him through witchcraft. The note read:

"Enjoy life with Brian's father, as both of you visited a traditional healer to bewitch me, hoping I would die in a car accident so you could enjoy life together… But soon, you will be following me to the grave."

When police arrived at the scene, Mujuru was found hanging from a garage beam with a white electric cable around his neck, though his feet were still touching the ground. He was wearing multiple layers of clothing, including a woollen hat, track pants, and sandals. Items found on him included a Vivo cellphone, cigarettes, and paracetamol pills.

Mujuru had been wanted by police for physically assaulting and strangling his wife during the dispute over the infidelity accusations. Moyo, who sustained injuries in the assault, is receiving treatment at United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH).

Assistant Inspector Msebele expressed concern over the rising cases of suicide in Bulawayo, with 21 recorded between June and October, 20 of which involved male victims. She urged men to seek counselling and support rather than resorting to self-harm.

"Taking one's life is not a solution. Men need to consider the impact on their families, especially children who are left orphaned. We encourage seeking help to deal with life's challenges," said Ass Insp Msebele.

Mujuru's body has been taken to UBH for a post-mortem as investigations continue. Authorities are emphasizing the need for mental health awareness and preventive measures to address the increasing suicide rates in the region.