News / National
Man sets self ablaze after confrontation with his ex-wife
2 hrs ago |
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A 35-year-old man from Madamombe Village, Edwell Mukuza, died after setting himself on fire following a confrontation with his ex-wife, leaving the local community in shock.
Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident, which occurred in Muzvidziwa Village on September 26, 2025, at around 5 PM.
"I confirm the death of Mukuza, who died after setting himself ablaze over a misunderstanding with his ex-wife on September 26, 2025," said Insp Dhewa.
According to police reports, the tragedy unfolded when Mukuza, accompanied by his friend Aldo Zengeya (31), visited his ex-wife to collect his belongings. On arrival, he found her waiting outside with his bags already packed.
Overcome with emotion, Mukuza reportedly hugged his ex-wife and asked why she hated him so much before requesting privacy. Moments later, he drew a knife and attempted to stab her. She managed to block the attack and fled, while Zengeya intervened and disarmed him.
Mukuza then rushed to his vehicle, where he retrieved a five-liter container of petrol. He poured the fuel over himself, ingested some of it, and ignited it with a lighter before anyone could restrain him. He sustained fatal burns and died at the scene.
Police were alerted but found him already deceased. His body was transferred to Chivi District Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
The incident has raised concern over rising cases of suicide and self-harm linked to domestic disputes in the province, with authorities urging communities to strengthen mental health awareness, counseling support, and conflict resolution interventions to prevent further tragedies.
Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident, which occurred in Muzvidziwa Village on September 26, 2025, at around 5 PM.
"I confirm the death of Mukuza, who died after setting himself ablaze over a misunderstanding with his ex-wife on September 26, 2025," said Insp Dhewa.
According to police reports, the tragedy unfolded when Mukuza, accompanied by his friend Aldo Zengeya (31), visited his ex-wife to collect his belongings. On arrival, he found her waiting outside with his bags already packed.
Overcome with emotion, Mukuza reportedly hugged his ex-wife and asked why she hated him so much before requesting privacy. Moments later, he drew a knife and attempted to stab her. She managed to block the attack and fled, while Zengeya intervened and disarmed him.
Mukuza then rushed to his vehicle, where he retrieved a five-liter container of petrol. He poured the fuel over himself, ingested some of it, and ignited it with a lighter before anyone could restrain him. He sustained fatal burns and died at the scene.
Police were alerted but found him already deceased. His body was transferred to Chivi District Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
The incident has raised concern over rising cases of suicide and self-harm linked to domestic disputes in the province, with authorities urging communities to strengthen mental health awareness, counseling support, and conflict resolution interventions to prevent further tragedies.
Source - Tellzim
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