Small house kills lover and his family

A quiet village in Matobo was rocked by a horrific act of violence on October 30, 2025, when 23-year-old Melissa Ndlovu and her family became victims of a devastating fire.

The blaze was allegedly set by Florence Ndlovu, from Ntabazinduna, who reportedly poured petrol over the family's shack before igniting it. Melissa was killed instantly, while her husband, Delight Nyathi, and their one-year-old child sustained severe burns. Nyathi later succumbed to his injuries, and the infant remains in intensive care.

Neighbours watched in horror as the flames consumed the shack. With the door locked, they had to break through walls in a desperate attempt to rescue the family. "Not knowing whether they were alive destroyed us emotionally," said Nyathi's brother, still grappling with the tragedy. The victims were rushed to United Bulawayo Hospitals, where Melissa was pronounced dead on arrival.

According to reports, Florence allegedly targeted the family after discovering Nyathi, an artisanal miner, was living with another woman. The suspect is currently on the run.

Melissa's relatives expressed deep anguish over the loss. "He never paid the bride price. They came here and left us a US$100 bill, as if that would bring our daughter back," one grieving family member said. Another relative added, "My younger brother died in my arms. The pain is unbearable. We hope the police will catch this cold-hearted murderer and put her in jail forever. Our focus now is on the recovery of our grandchild."

The incident has left the community shocked and mourning, as authorities continue the search for the suspect.