Teen Murders Friend Over STI Tease

Zvishavane - Zimbabwe Republic Police have arrested a 19-year-old man in connection with the fatal stabbing of his friend on 25 March, at around 2 a.m., following a sexually transmitted infection (STI) argument at Yorks Business Centre in Mberengwa.

The suspect, identified as Jimson Sibanda, was apprehended at a relative’s home in Munyamana Village after a brief search by police.

The incident occurred in the early hours of March 25, 2026, at Deo Night Club, located within the Yorks Business Centre.

Midlands Police Spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said the victim, 22-year-old Elvis Gwatimba, was drinking beer with Sibanda when a verbal altercation ensued.

It is alleged that Gwatimba began teasing Sibanda, claiming the teenager had been infected with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) by a sex worker.

“This did not go well with the suspect who then left the night club,” Inspector Mahoko said.

Police allege that Sibanda returned to the venue approximately one hour later and lured Gwatimba to a secluded area.

There, Sibanda reportedly produced a kitchen knife and stabbed Gwatimba once in the chest.

Gwatimba collapsed and was transported to Mberengwa District Hospital by well-wishers, where he later died from his injury.

“Police preliminary investigations led to the arrest of suspect, Jimson Sibanda,” the police statement confirmed, adding that the weapon used in the attack has been recovered and is being held as an exhibit.

The killing has prompted a renewed plea from law enforcement for citizens to find non-violent means of conflict resolution.

The Midlands police command emphasized that such impulsive acts lead to the "unnecessary loss of lives".

“Once again, we urge members of the public to desist from resorting to violence when resolving disputes,” Inspector Mahoko said.

Sibanda currently remains in custody and is expected to stand trial for murder once formal investigations are concluded.