Nkayi police hunt for murder suspect

Police in Nkayi, Matabeleland North, have launched a manhunt for Sicelinkosi Masuku of Ezinyangeni, who is wanted in connection with the murder of Princess Janet Magonya Dakamela.

The incident reportedly occurred on Wednesday night.

According to police, Masuku allegedly attacked and killed Dakamela at a local guest house where she was employed before fleeing the scene.

Preliminary information indicates that the deceased had recently returned to Zimbabwe from South Africa, where she had previously lived and worked. While in South Africa, she is said to have met Masuku and entered into a relationship with him. It later emerged that Masuku was married.

Police allege that Dakamela ended the relationship and returned to Zimbabwe, but Masuku followed her last week and began stalking her after failing to accept the breakup.

"It is alleged that the suspect tracked the victim to a guest house at Nkayi Centre, where he brutally attacked and killed her before fleeing the area," police said.

Investigators also revealed that Dakamela had received threatening messages prior to her death, allegedly from Masuku, including one stating: "If I don't have you, no one will have you."

Masuku is believed to still be in Zimbabwe and may be attempting to flee back to South Africa. Police noted that he resides in Ivory Park, Thembisa, Gauteng Province, and has a twin brother, which may complicate identification.

Authorities are appealing to members of the public in both Zimbabwe and South Africa for information that may assist in locating the suspect.

"Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Sicelinkosi Masuku is urged to report to the nearest police station," police said.