Police Officer To Spend Christmas In Jail Over Brutal Assault On Pastor In Masvingo

A police officer based in Masvingo, accused of severely assaulting a pastor and his friend, and causing extensive damage to their Mercedes-Benz over a dispute involving a girlfriend, will spend the Christmas and New Year holidays in custody.

Costa Dhlamini, 21, appeared before Masvingo Regional Magistrate Innocent Bepura, who remanded him in custody until 6 January 2026.

The incident occurred around midnight on Monday last week in Mucheke, Masvingo.

Pastor Ephraim Masiyandima, of Evangelical Divine Affirmation Ministries, underwent three surgeries on his right eye following the attack, while Blessing Urayayi sustained multiple head and facial injuries requiring stitches.

Masiyandima’s Mercedes-Benz was extensively damaged, with its front and rear windshields, headlights, and all window panes smashed. The estimated value of the damage is US$1,500, none of which has been recovered.

Dhlamini faces three charges: attempted murder, assault, and malicious damage to property. Court papers reveal that the alleged attack was linked to Dhlamini’s girlfriend, Precious Chimonyo.

According to the State outline, all four individuals were drinking at San Siro club around midnight when Urayayi reportedly tried to speak to Chimonyo, sparking a dispute with Dhlamini.

Following the disagreement, Dhlamini left the club with Chimonyo in a taxi, while Urayayi followed in Masiyandima’s Mercedes-Benz.

The vehicles met along Musuma Street in Mucheke. A. Urayayi allegedly removed Chimonyo from the taxi, prompting Dhlamini to assault him with an empty beer bottle.

Masiyandima was also struck in the eye while attempting to intervene. Dhlamini then reportedly caused extensive damage to the Mercedes-Benz.

More: Masvingo Mirror