Chimanimani Shooting Update: Wife Battles With Bullet In Jaw As Suspect Remains On The Run
Four days after the Chimanimani shooting was first reported on 20 April 2026, new details have emerged as the victim battles severe injuries, including a bullet lodged in her jaw, while the suspect remains on the run following the violent attack.
The shooting, which occurred on 18 April 2026, saw three people injured after a domestic dispute turned violent. Police are still searching for Francis Makuma Magirayano (30), who is believed to have fled towards Mozambique after the incident.
Victim Awaiting Specialist Surgery Days After Shooting
The Manica Post reports that Ms Mercyline Mahembe (26) remains hospitalised after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds during the attack. She was admitted to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital on Sunday, 21 April 2026, as first reported earlier in the week.
Medical experts say her condition is stable but serious.
“She has a bullet lodged in the lower jaw. It entered on the right side and is now stuck on the left. She also suffered a gunshot wound to the hand and injuries to the thigh,” said a medical expert monitoring her condition.
The injuries reportedly left her with loose teeth. She is now expected to be seen by maxillofacial specialists in Harare on Friday, 24 April 2026, as part of ongoing treatment.
Two other victims — her sister and a shopkeeper at Kopa Business Centre — were also injured during the shooting and are receiving treatment.
Police Renew Appeal As Suspect Remains At Large
Authorities say the suspect has not yet been apprehended, despite an earlier public appeal issued on 19 April 2026.
“The suspect, who is believed to have recently returned from South Africa driving a silver Toyota Fortuner (registration JV 70 SM GP), allegedly shot three victims with a firearm following a domestic dispute with his wife Mercyline Mahembe (26),” the Zimbabwe Republic Police said.
Police believe Magirayano may have crossed into Mozambique, raising fears of a cross-border escape.
“The ZRP is appealing for information which may lead to the arrest of Francis Makuma Magirayano (30), who is wanted in connection with a case of attempted murder which occurred on 18/04/2026 in Chimanimani,” police said.
Members of the public have been warned not to approach the suspect.
“Anyone with information on his whereabouts should contact the National Complaints Desk or report to the nearest police station,” police added.
Alleged Domestic Dispute Behind Shooting
While investigations are ongoing, community members say the shooting may have been triggered by allegations of infidelity.
A villager, Mr Thompson Makhuyana, shared what residents have been saying.
“We heard that someone informed him that his wife was cheating on him. This is why he drove all the way on a revenge mission. His motive, it appears, was to kill her,” he said.
Police have not confirmed the motive but have stated that the incident followed a domestic dispute.
The post Chimanimani Shooting Update: 6 Days Later, Wife Still Has Bullet Lodged In Jaw As Husband Remains On The Run appeared first on iHarare News.
