Ex-Lover In Custody After Brutal Night Stabbing Leaves Gokwe Woman Dead
A 26‑year‑old woman, Nancy Sumburani, was fatally stabbed by her ex‑husband in a late‑night attack. The suspect, Learnard Tomu, has been arrested and faces murder charges.
Dumisani Ndlovu 
Gokwe - The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed a hair-raising murder case in which a 26-year-old woman was fatally stabbed by her alleged ex-husband in a late-night attack in Gokwe.
The incident occurred on April 7, 2026, at approximately 9 p.m. at Huni Compound near Zenda Business Centre under Chief Chireya, Gokwe North.
Police identified the deceased as Nancy Sumburani. Her alleged attacker, Learnard Tomu (30), of Village 24A under Headman Fakazi in the same area, has since been arrested and is in police custody facing murder charges.
According to a statement issued by ZRP, the fatal confrontation stemmed from a failed attempt by Tomu to rekindle a relationship with Sumburani.
On the night in question, Tomu reportedly visited the deceased at her residence where he found her in the company of her sister, Alerta Makore.
The matter was referred to a family elder, Jonathan, an uncle to the deceased, who attempted to mediate.
However, Sumburani firmly rejected reconciliation, citing a history of violent behaviour by Tomu.
Police say the refusal triggered a deadly chain of events. Tomu allegedly left the homestead, only to return approximately 30 minutes later in a more agitated state.
He reportedly demanded the return of a cellphone and US$100 he had previously given Sumburani during their relationship.
An argument quickly escalated into violence, with Tomu allegedly producing a knife and stabbing Sumburani multiple times. She died on the spot.
Officers from ZRP Nembudziya attended the scene and launched investigations, leading to the arrest of the suspect.
The body of the deceased was transported to Gokwe North District Hospital mortuary, where it is awaiting a post-mortem examination.
The suspect is expected to appear in court soon.
In the wake of the incident, police have reiterated calls for members of the public to seek peaceful conflict resolution mechanisms.
“We once again implore members of the public to engage elders and counsellors whenever they have differences,” said Midlands Police Spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko in the statement.
