By Staff Reporter A man wanted in connection with the brutal murder of Ruwa businessman Joseph Mutangadura was arrested yesterday in Sanyati after a dramatic shootout that claimed the life of a police officer and left another seriously injured. The suspect, Vengesai Jabulani Mutasa (41), had been on the run for several weeks, evading capture as detectives from the CID Homicide Division closed in on him. His reign of terror came to a bloody end on Saturday after he allegedly opened fire on law enforcement officers attempting to arrest him. According to a police statement dated 26 October 2025, the confrontation occurred when a team of detectives from Harare, working with officers from ZRP Sanyati, attempted to apprehend Mutasa in connection with the August 2025 murder of Mutangadura, a prominent Ruwa businessman and farmer. Mutangadura was found dead at his farmhouse with multiple stab and gunshot wounds, sparking a nationwide manhunt. As police moved in, Mutasa reportedly drew a firearm and opened fire, fatally shooting Constable Courage Muchechesi and seriously wounding Detective Constable Ngwenya. Witnesses said the sound of gunfire sent panic through the usually quiet Sanyati business centre, as officers scrambled for cover. In the chaos, the suspect allegedly turned his weapon on a civilian, Abraham Mayavo (30), robbing him of US$5 before attempting to flee. Mayavo, who had been at the police station filing a separate report, narrowly escaped with his life. Mutasa’s bid for freedom was short-lived. Word quickly spread through the township, prompting a group of enraged residents to give chase. Armed with stones, sticks, and sheer determination, the mob pursued the fugitive and managed to corner him after a tense standoff. Mobile phone footage captured by a bystander shows the suspect lying face down on the dusty roadside, surrounded by angry locals shouting and gesturing at him. Officers from ZRP Sanyati soon arrived at the scene to prevent further violence and took Mutasa into custody. In a statement, National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest and expressed gratitude to the public for their swift action and cooperation. The Zimbabwe Republic Police commends members of the public in Sanyati, Kadoma, Chakari, and Patchway who mobilised quickly and courageously assisted in the capture of the suspect. Their vigilance and bravery are highly commendable,” said Commissioner Nyathi. He added that investigations were still underway and that Mutasa would face additional charges of murder, attempted murder, armed robbery, and illegal possession of a firearm. The death of Constable Muchechesi has sent shockwaves through the police force, with colleagues describing him as a dedicated and courageous officer who died in the line of duty. The Zimbabwe Republic Police has since assured the public that justice will be served and that all individuals involved in violent crimes will be “pursued relentlessly.” Mutasa is expected to appear in court soon after being transferred to Harare under heavy guard. As investigations continue, the case has reignited debate over rising violent crime and the risks faced by law enforcement officers in the execution of their duties, particularly those dealing with dangerous fugitives. Post navigation MAN SERVED 43 YEARS IN PRISON FOR A MURDER HE DID NOT COMMIT: Now they’re trying to deport him to a country he hasn’t lived in since he was a baby. PHD Church Leader Walter Magaya Arrested Over Rape and Fraud Allegations