Story by Josephine Mugiyo,Diplomatic Correspondent
RESIDENTS of Guruve in Mashonaland Central Province are slowly resuming daily life following the arrest of suspected serial killer Anymore Zvitsva, although uncertainty and lingering fear continue to grip the community.
Zvitsva was arrested on January 3, after a series of killings that had turned parts of Guruve into a place of fear forcing villagers to abandon routine activities such as herding cattle and travelling alone.
While many residents say the arrest has brought a sense of relief, some remain unconvinced that the suspect acted alone.
“We were happy when Zvitsva was arrested, but we are not really sure if this man was working alone,” said local villager Together Chitivasora. “There are still many unanswered questions.”
Another resident, Wonder Kamanura, noted that the suspect’s homestead now stands deserted. “The homestead has been abandoned; there is no one there,” he said.
A visit to the homestead revealed locked doors and overgrown crops, a stark contrast to what neighbours described as a once lively household. The abandoned property has become a sombre reminder of the violence that shocked the community.
Neighbours and relatives of the victims say the emotional scars remain deep.
“As neighbours to the family that was killed, we will never forget this,” Innocent Chitatura said.
“Every time we pass here, we remember how well we related with the deceased.”
Another villager, Everjoy Chigwandaza, said the loss was personal. “I am still hurt by losing my friend. We did everything together, even fetching firewood.”
In Magaya village under Sabhuku Bosha, 23-year-old Webster Malunga, whose mother and sister were among the victims, said he believed more suspects should be brought to justice.
“We just ask that those who may still be involved be arrested,” he said.
“We had planned to visit our mother in December, but it turned out differently.”
Malunga said fear has forced him to seek shelter elsewhere at night, while some villagers have temporarily abandoned their homes.
Zvitsva remains in custody awaiting trial. Meanwhile, residents are appealing to police to thoroughly investigate the case to establish whether accomplices were involved, as the community seeks both justice and lasting peace.
