Food Argument Leads To Murder As Landlord Kills Tenant For Sheltering Wife

Landlord Fatally Stabs Tenant After Dispute Over Refuge Given To Wife

A Midlands landlord has been arrested for the alleged murder of his tenant after his wife sought refuge in the tenant’s room during a domestic altercation. The fatal stabbing occurred in Mvuma on the evening of 31 January 2026, following a dispute that began over an unmet expectation for a prepared meal.

Police confirm that Aleck Chaminuka (25) stands accused of killing his lodger, Tanaka Musiiwa (24), in a violent confrontation that has shocked the Mushayabvudzi suburb. The incident reportedly unfolded after Chaminuka returned to his home from work in Chivhu.

A Refuge That Turned Deadly

According to Midlands Provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, the chain of events began with a marital dispute. Chaminuka allegedly confronted his wife, Caroline Hofisi (23), about food not being ready upon his return. Inspector Mahoko provided the official account.

“Circumstances are that on January 31 at around 8pm, Chaminuka arrived home from Chivhu, where he works, and discovered that his wife, Caroline Hofisi had not prepared food for him,” he said.

Hofisi, who had reportedly just returned from church, became the subject of an argument. Seeking safety, she fled to a room on the property rented by Tanaka Musiiwa and was received by Musiiwa’s wife, Portia Dzigahwi (19). This act of sanctuary would tragically escalate the situation beyond a domestic quarrel.

Accusations And A Fatal Confrontation

Inspector Mahoko stated that Dzigahwi later informed her husband, Musiiwa, about the dispute next door. When Musiiwa returned home, he was met with a furious accusation from his landlord.

“Later, Musiiwa arrived home and Chaminuka accused him (the lodger) of being in love with his wife. An altercation ensued between the two while their wives were inside Musiiwa’s bedroom,” Inspector Mahoko said.

The police spokesperson detailed the violent conclusion. The verbal argument quickly turned physical, culminating in the alleged use of a knife by the landlord.

“The situation escalated, and according to Insp Mahoko, Chaminuka then allegedly took a knife and stabbed Musiiwa once.”

Neighbours rushed the critically injured Musiiwa to Mvuma District Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The police have confirmed that Chaminuka was immediately arrested and remains in custody as investigations continue.

A Call For Peaceful Resolution

In the wake of the tragedy, Inspector Mahoko reiterated a standard police appeal to the public, emphasising the need for non-violent conflict resolution.