An 88-year-old woman from Kuzomuka Village under Chief Mupapa in Chikombedzi died after her thatched hut caught fire in the early hours of 4 May 2026.
Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police Spokesperson Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu said Makanaka Kuzomuka was sleeping alone in her bedroom hut, near an open fire, when the blaze broke out at around 2:30 am.
Her daughter-in-law, Hakamela Makanani, saw an unusual light coming from the hut and found it on fire.
“Hakamela Makanani, who is her daughter-in-law, saw a flash of light through the window and rushed outside, but the hut was already on fire, and the roof had already collapsed in,” said Assistant Inspector Patinyu.
He said neighbours were called to help, but the fire spread too quickly. It destroyed the hut and everything inside before they could put it out.
Police were informed and found the body burnt beyond recognition. It was taken to Chikombedzi Mission Hospital for a post-mortem, Assistant Inspector Patinyu said.
Assistant Inspector Patinyu also warned the public about the risks of indoor fires, especially in thatched buildings.
He urged people to avoid sleeping near open fires, particularly in thatched houses, to prevent similar tragedies.
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