THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has announced a series of tragic incidents in Masvingo, including the arrest of a 29-year-old man for allegedly killing two minors in Zaka, the death of a four-year-old learner in Chiredzi, and a drowning incident at Tugwi-Mukosi Dam.

Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest of Obedience Makonye (29), who allegedly lured his 14-year-old niece, Elizabeth Munetsi, and nine-year-old cousin, Shepherd Makonye, to Gondora Mountain on January 26.

According to the police, the suspect is accused of raping the girl before killing both victims “in an effort to conceal the offence.”

The two children had been on their way home from school. Their bodies were later found at the mountain.

“The suspect was arrested on 27th January 2026 after confessing to the heinous incident to the police,” ZRP said.

Investigators also recovered a knife believed to have been used in commission of the crime.

In a separate incident in Chiredzi, police are investigating the death of four-year-old Early Childhood Development (ECD) learner Steadfast Makondo, who was reported missing on her way home from school and later found dead under a Marula tree on January 27.

Police say the child had visible injuries, and a murder investigation is underway.

Meanwhile, in Ngundu, two people died in a drowning incident at Tugwi-Mukosi Dam on  January 28 after a boat carrying 10 passengers capsized.

Police identified the victims as Leona Zendekanyi (26) and Saint Munyaradzi (3).

According to police, the vessel overturned after it “allegedly smashed into a hard object in the water.”

ZRP urged communities to take increased precautions for child safety and water-related activities.

Police investigations into all three incidents are ongoing.