The peaceful community of Ruwa and the wider Harare business circle were rocked by heartbreak and shock on the early hours of Monday, August 18, 2025, following the brutal murder of Joseph Mutangadura, a well-respected businessman popularly known as Mutangazi.
Mutangadura was much more than a businessman; he was a pillar of his community, known for his dynamic entrepreneurial ventures. He owned the sprawling Lisheen Estate farmhouse on the eastern outskirts of Harare, which was central to his agricultural and livestock business activities. Besides, Mutangadura was the proud owner of the well-known leisure spot “Mutangadura Hideout” and operated several butcheries across the capital city.
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Between 400 and 500 people live on the property. He had multiple businesses including rentals and earthworks.
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The guard was new and did not know the setup in the house.
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Seven men arrived on foot and took the car keys of the Ford Ranger and left it on the neighbouring farm.
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They specifically asked for Mutangadura and broke down the doors using hammers and iron bars.
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They took the son and made him lead them to the father.
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A cousin was called and found him still breathing.
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He was declared dead on arrival.
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The wife is in hospital.
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He asked to be buried next to his first wife.
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It is not clear what was taken from the safe.
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He was a major philanthropist, paying school fees for nearby children and supporting local families.
The Tragic Incident
In what appeared to be a cold-blooded armed robbery, seven masked gunmen stormed Mutangadura’s farmhouse in the early hours of the day. According to eyewitnesses and initial reports, the attackers demanded money, and Mutangadura was shot six times—once in the stomach and five times in the chest. In a desperate bid to save his life, Mutangadura pleaded with the assailants, offering to lead them to his business cash reserves at the abattoirs, but tragically, the attackers disregarded his pleas and executed him on the spot.
His safe was later found open, suggesting that robbery was the likely motive behind this savage act.
Community and Police Response
The murder has left the Ruwa community and the wider business environment in mourning, with many expressing deep sorrow over the loss of such a vibrant community leader. The police have launched a nationwide manhunt for the suspects, appealing to the public for any information that could aid in their swift arrest.
Eyewitness Accounts from the Funeral by Gambakwe
A live video from Gambakwe capturing the funeral proceedings further highlighted the extent of grief and the depth of respect Mutangadura commanded among family, friends, and community members. Witnesses in the video recounted the tragedy with a mix of shock and sorrow, emphasizing Mutangadura’s kindness and the void his sudden death has left.
Many mourners spoke of his dedication to empowering locals through employment and his role as a mentor to young entrepreneurs, painting a picture of a man who was not only successful but also deeply caring and committed to societal development.
