Police in Masvingo, Zimbabwe, have arrested a 33-year-old man after he allegedly killed a fellow congregant with a wooden log during a Zion Christian Church (ZCC) service on November 9, 2025. The incident occurred in full view of worshippers, abruptly halting the service and leaving the community in shock.
The victim, 23-year-old Emmanuel Shanganai, reportedly became involved in a heated argument with the suspect, identified as Sam Togara. Witnesses said the two men, who lived in the same neighbourhood and had a history of minor disputes, began quarrelling inside the church before the confrontation escalated into violence.
During the altercation, Togara is said to have grabbed a large piece of timber and struck Shanganai with significant force. The blow caused Shanganai to collapse immediately, and congregants rushed to his aid as chaos spread through the sanctuary.
Emergency responders were called to the scene, but Shanganai was pronounced dead on arrival. His remains were transferred to Ndanga Hospital for a post-mortem examination to confirm the cause of death.
Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the arrest, noting that Togara is cooperating with investigators. He condemned the attack, stressing the need for nonviolent conflict resolution, particularly in places of worship.
“We have arrested Sam Togara, who is suspected of killing Emmanuel Shanganai during a church service. He is assisting with investigations,” Inspector Dhewa said. “We urge members of the public to refrain from violence and avoid turning prayer gatherings into scenes of confrontation.”
Local church leaders are expected to hold counselling sessions for congregants affected by the traumatic incident, while authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the fatal dispute.
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Source:Africa Publicity
