Slayed cop's last moments

A dark cloud has engulfed the Sanyati community in Mashonaland West following the tragic killing of Constable Courage Innocent Muchechesi, who was gunned down by an armed robber while on duty at Sanyati Police Station last week.

The 40-year-old officer was shot and killed by Vengesai Jabulani Mutasa, a suspected armed robber linked to the murder of Ruwa businessman Joseph Mutangadura in August this year. Police confirmed that the same pistol used in Mutangadura's killing was used to end Muchechesi's life.

According to police reports, Mutasa had earlier escaped a confrontation with detectives from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Homicide, during which he shot one of the officers, Detective Ngwenya, before fleeing naked into the night. Moments later, he stormed into Sanyati Police Station, where Muchechesi was recording an assault statement, and opened fire, killing him instantly.

Mutasa later claimed that the homicide officers had stolen US$1,000 from him, but his brief escape was cut short after vigilant civilians tracked him down and handed him over to police. He reportedly confessed to the killing during interrogation.

The tragedy has plunged Sanyati into mourning, with hundreds of residents and police officers describing Muchechesi as a dedicated and humble public servant whose life was cut short in the line of duty.

During emotional eulogies at his burial in Chese Village, Gutu, family members and colleagues painted a picture of a man devoted to his work and family. His younger brother, Pride Muchechesi, recalled their final conversation just hours before the shooting.

"It was around 10pm when he phoned me. We talked about family issues and future plans. Little did we know it was our last conversation," Pride said tearfully.
"He was loved by everyone. What pains us most is that he died for doing his job. His children deserve justice."

Family representative Bernard Rusere expressed outrage over the circumstances surrounding the officer's death, accusing police authorities of failing to provide adequate security within police stations.

"A police station is supposed to be a secure zone. How does a criminal just walk in, shoot an officer, and walk out? This is unacceptable," Rusere said, his voice breaking with emotion.
"Even if the Commissioner-General was here, I would still speak my mind. We are deeply aggrieved - this must never happen again."

Constable Muchechesi joined the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in 2013 and served at Kadoma Police Station and the Traffic Department before being transferred to Sanyati. Colleagues described him as "handsome, disciplined, and committed", a man who inspired confidence and dedication among his peers.

Hundreds of mourners - including residents from Chakari, Kadoma, Patchway, Harare, and Gutu - gathered to pay their last respects. The sombre atmosphere reflected both grief and anger, as many called for stronger police protection and justice for the slain officer.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi conveyed condolences on behalf of the ZRP leadership, describing Muchechesi as a dedicated officer with a bright future.

"The Commissioner-General has extended his deepest condolences to the Muchechesi family, friends, and the community at large. The force has lost a promising and loyal member," said Comm Nyathi.

Constable Muchechesi is survived by his wife Charity Siziba and two children, Pridemore (9) and Elsie (3).

His death has left a void in the police service and his community - a painful reminder of the dangers faced by those who serve to protect.
His colleagues vowed that his sacrifice will not be forgotten, and his memory will stand as a testament to courage in the face of duty.