Madlambuzi, Zimbabwe — A tragic incident has shaken the community of Madlambuzi in Matabeleland South after a mentally unstable man went on a violent rampage, killing five people and injuring two others. The horrific event occurred on August 20, 2025, leaving villagers traumatised and the nation in shock.
The suspect, Phamani Sibanda (43), has since been arrested by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP). National Police Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the arrest and provided details of the bloody episode that has sparked widespread mourning.
Details of the Rampage
According to police reports, Sibanda suddenly became violent and began attacking villagers using a Mopani log, a blunt object, and an unidentified sharp weapon. Moving aggressively from one homestead to another, he targeted anyone he came across, leaving behind a trail of devastation.
Commissioner Nyathi described the attack as indiscriminate:
“The suspect ran amok, became violent, and attacked seven people… Five died on the spot, while two sustained serious injuries.”
The brutality of the incident has raised alarm about the dangers posed when mental health conditions remain unchecked, particularly in rural communities with limited access to psychiatric care.
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Identities of the Victims
Police have since identified the deceased through their families. The victims were:
- Elliot Khupe (101), male, of Bellas Village, Madlambuzi
- Butho Tshuma (97), female, of Bellas Village, Madlambuzi
- Constance Sibanda (66), female, of Bellas Village, Madlambuzi
- Tiffan Surprise Ndlovu (6), female juvenile, of Bellas Village, Madlambuzi
- Catra Matsika (72), female, of Central Village, Madlambuzi
The two survivors — women aged 90 and 41 — were rushed for medical treatment. One was admitted at Madlambuzi Clinic, while the other was transferred to Plumtree District Hospital for further care. Their conditions are said to be serious but stable.
The range of ages among the victims, from a six-year-old child to a centenarian, has magnified the community’s grief. Families are devastated at the loss of loved ones who were defenceless and unsuspecting.
Community in Shock
Residents of Madlambuzi have been left deeply shaken by the rampage. The fact that such an attack could occur in a close-knit rural village has raised urgent questions about mental health awareness, community safety, and the need for preventive interventions.
Villagers described the incident as “unimaginable”, noting that Sibanda, despite his history of mental instability, had not shown signs of extreme violence in recent days. His sudden aggression caught the community completely off guard.
Community elders and church leaders have already begun offering counselling and support to affected families, while local authorities are coordinating burial arrangements for the deceased.
Police and Government Response
Commissioner Nyathi emphasised that the police acted swiftly to apprehend Sibanda and prevent further bloodshed. He urged communities across the country to remain vigilant and report early warning signs when individuals display violent or unstable behaviour.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police appeals to members of the public to work closely with law enforcement and health professionals in handling suspected mental health cases. This tragedy demonstrates the importance of early intervention,” Nyathi said.
Government officials from Matabeleland South are expected to visit the bereaved families, with reports indicating that assistance may be provided for funeral expenses.
Health Concerns For Mentally Unstable Persons In Rural Zimbabwe
The incident has also reignited discussions about the state of mental health care in Zimbabwe, particularly in remote areas. Many rural clinics lack trained psychiatric staff, medication, or facilities to manage patients with severe mental illness. Families often struggle in silence, relying on traditional remedies or prayer, with limited professional support.
Mental health experts say such tragic incidents highlight the urgent need for community-based psychiatric programmes and awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and ensure timely treatment.
A Community in Mourning
As investigations continue, Madlambuzi remains gripped by grief. The victims included the very old and the very young, people who represented the heart of the community. Their deaths have left a deep scar that will not easily heal.
For now, Sibanda remains in custody awaiting his court appearance. While justice will take its course, villagers say what they want most is healing, safety, and assurance that such an atrocity will never happen again.
