Man dies after brutal assault over stolen cellphone

A 38-year-old man from Mbare has died after sustaining severe injuries during a violent assault sparked by a dispute over a missing cellphone.

Steven Chatadza succumbed to his injuries after being attacked by his neighbour, Hudson Rakandwa, on January 17. Chatadza's nephew, Kudakwashe Mautare (43), was also assaulted during the incident.

According to police, the violence erupted after Rakandwa discovered that his cellphone, which he had left charging near an open window overnight, had gone missing. He suspected that Chatadza and Mautare were responsible.

In a rage, Rakandwa allegedly confronted the two men at Chatadza's house, demanding the return of the phone. He then forcibly took them to his own residence, where the confrontation escalated.

Armed with an iron bar, Rakandwa allegedly struck both men several times, threatening to break their legs if the cellphone was not returned. Witnesses said Chatadza began bleeding heavily and was rushed to hospital for medical attention.

Despite receiving treatment, Chatadza's condition continued to deteriorate in the days that followed.

Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza confirmed the incident and subsequent death.

"He confronted Steven and his nephew at their home and, during the assault, struck Steven with an iron bar before switching to fists, hitting him repeatedly in the face and head," said Insp Chakanza.

"After the assault, Hudson released them, but Steven's condition continued to deteriorate. On January 26, 2026, at around 7am, Steven complained of a headache and was taken to hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival."

Rakandwa has since gone into hiding, and police have launched a manhunt.

Authorities are appealing to members of the public with information on Rakandwa's whereabouts to come forward and assist with investigations.