Businessman Obrian Obert Mapurisa is facing accusations of orchestrating a murder-for-hire plot targeting his business partner, allegedly hiring hitmen based in South Africa to carry out the deadly deed.
The motive behind this sinister scheme reportedly stems from a failed business deal involving the importation of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tankers from Italy two years ago. Following the collapse of the deal, tensions escalated, ultimately leading to drastic measures.
The suspected hitmen, identified as Moses Monde (37), Marlvin Manzinde (30), Malvin Tatenda Nyamuranga (33), Nobert Muponda (45), and Joshua Mapuranga (41), were apprehended by detectives from CID Homicide before they could execute their deadly mission.
The intended victim, businessman Oliver Tendai Chipindu (44), narrowly escaped harm due to the timely intervention of law enforcement.
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Obrian Mapurisa, along with the alleged hitmen, reportedly traveled from South Africa to Zimbabwe in search of their target. After failing to locate Chipindu, they spent a week at a lodge in Avondale, Harare, where they were ultimately arrested.
Mapurisa, the alleged mastermind behind the plot, remains at large as investigations continue. Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrests, indicating that the suspects are currently assisting with inquiries.
While contract killings are relatively uncommon in Zimbabwe, they have become a grim reality in neighboring South Africa and Mozambique. Several high-profile individuals in South Africa, including former football captain Senyo Meyiwa and rapper Kiernan Forbes, have allegedly fallen victim to similar plots orchestrated by hitmen.
