Harare, Zimbabwe | The trial of suspected serial rapist and murderer Bright Zhantali has been suspended following a psychiatric evaluation that declared him mentally unfit to stand trial.
Harare magistrate Mr. Dennis Mangosi confirmed the development, resulting in Zhantali’s admission to the Chikurubi Maximum Psychiatric Unit for further care.
Zhantali faces multiple charges, including three counts of murder. Prosecutor Mr. Rufaro Chonzi outlined chilling details of the alleged crimes, highlighting a pattern of sexual violence and murder targeting women.
On July 17, 2020, Zhantali reportedly lured Ms. Priscilla Chidhakwa, 24, with a promise of US$10 for sexual services. Under the pretext of heading to his Mabvuku residence, he instead took her to Donnybrook Race Course.
There, he allegedly raped and murdered her before discarding her body in a trench. The next day, her lifeless body, tied at the neck and hands with pieces of blankets, was discovered by Mr. Marvelous Matondo, who reported the matter to police.
On December 7, 2021, Zhantali allegedly struck again, targeting Ms. Manyara Chisora, 46. Posing as someone able to provide land for rent, he accompanied her to her home to finalize lease arrangements.
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There, he is accused of raping her and striking her fatally with the back of an axe. He reportedly stole groceries, a cellphone, clothes, and blankets before fleeing. The gruesome crime was discovered by Ms. Chisora’s 15-year-old daughter, who alerted relatives and police.
Zhantali is also charged with the murder of Ms. Spiwe Nyamoto, 50. He allegedly hired her for sexual services, raped her, then killed her. Her body was later found dumped in the Mabvuku sewage ponds.
In a chilling confession, Zhantali claimed responsibility for over 10 murders in the Marondera area, underscoring the magnitude of his alleged crimes.
The accused has demonstrated erratic behavior in court proceedings. In November 2022, Zhantali’s trial was postponed after Justice Roger Manyangadze observed bizarre theatrics, prompting an order for his admission to the Chikurubi Maximum Psychiatric Unit. The latest psychiatric evaluation now confirms he is not mentally fit to face trial.
Zhantali will remain under care at the psychiatric unit, and the High Court trial remains on hold pending further developments. His mental state raises questions about how justice will be pursued for the victims and their families, whose lives were irrevocably changed by these heinous acts.
The case continues to highlight the intersection of mental health and criminal accountability, particularly in cases involving violent and serial offenses.
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