Crime and Courts
Man Killer Over US$ 1 Mice Debt…
By A Correspondent| A shocking dispute over just US$1 ended in tragedy after a man from Masvingo allegedly lost his life following a violent assault linked to unpaid debt for mice sold on credit.
The deceased, identified as 43-year-old Taurai Deredzai of Magenya Village under Chief Zimuto, reportedly succumbed to injuries sustained during the attack.
Masvingo police confirmed the incident and said investigations are still underway, with one suspect already in custody while another remains on the run.
“We can confirm the death of Deredzai from Magenya Village under Chief Zimuto in Masvingo. Investigations are continuing and citizens are asked to assist the police with information that can lead to the arrest of Tedious Mupopa who is still at large,” Masvingo Police said.
According to reports, the events began on June 7, 2026, at around 10AM at Dure Business Centre, where Deredzai was selling mice. It is alleged that brothers Moses Mupopa (22) and Tedious Mupopa (20), both from Magaya Village under Chief Makumbe in Buhera, approached him requesting to buy mice on credit. Deredzai allegedly agreed to the arrangement.
Two days later, on June 9 at approximately 8:30PM, the three reportedly crossed paths again at the same business centre. Deredzai is said to have demanded payment for the debt, triggering a confrontation.
The altercation allegedly turned violent when Moses and Tedious attacked Deredzai using crutches he had been relying on, as well as a whip. He suffered serious injuries during the assault.
Deredzai was initially rushed to a nearby clinic for treatment. However, his condition worsened, and on June 11 he was transferred to Masvingo Provincial Hospital at around 9AM, where he later died.
The matter was reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police in Masvingo. Authorities arrested Moses Mupopa, while efforts to locate and apprehend Tedious Mupopa are ongoing.Zimbabwean government news
