Double murder convict receives two life sentences

A 37-year-old man from Chipinge has been sentenced to two life terms by the High Court in Mutare after being convicted of murdering two girlfriends in separate incidents committed more than two years apart.

Felix Siyatiunya was found guilty in two unrelated murder cases in which investigators said both killings followed disputes linked to allegations of infidelity and displayed striking similarities in their execution and aftermath.

Confirming the convictions, CID national spokesperson Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri said the first murder occurred on September 27, 2023, at Checheche Growth Point in Chipinge.

According to police, Siyatiunya fatally assaulted his girlfriend following an argument before leaving her body inside a locked room and fleeing the area. The victim's body was later discovered after the accused contacted his landlord, who alerted authorities.

Investigators said Siyatiunya remained undetected in connection with the case until a second murder committed in Mutare in December 2025 led detectives to him.

Police said the second incident occurred on December 18, 2025, after a dispute between Siyatiunya and his girlfriend.

The victim later died from injuries sustained during the attack.

Following the incident, the accused allegedly left the body inside his rented apartment before fleeing. The victim's sister later discovered the body after receiving instructions to check the room.

Detectives arrested Siyatiunya in Mutare on January 3 this year after receiving information on his whereabouts.

Subsequent investigations established that he was also wanted in connection with the 2023 murder in Chipinge.

The High Court in Mutare sentenced Siyatiunya to life imprisonment on the first conviction on June 2 before imposing a second life sentence on June 9 in the related murder case.

Police said the convictions brought closure to investigations into two separate killings that shared similar motives and circumstances.

Meanwhile, in a separate case, 29-year-old Abiola Mangena was sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment by the Bulawayo Regional Court after being convicted of robbery.

Detective Inspector Muteweri said Mangena entered a shop on June 11 this year and threatened the complainant with a pellet gun before stealing a cash box.

The complainant raised the alarm, prompting members of the public to pursue the suspect and assist in his apprehension.

Police recovered the stolen property as well as the pellet gun allegedly used during the robbery.

Detective Inspector Muteweri commended members of the public for assisting law enforcement agencies in combating crime.

"The Zimbabwe Republic Police continue to applaud members of the public for their concerted effort in the fight against crime. Such collective efforts remain vital in ensuring the safety and security of communities throughout the country," she said.