He Was Not CID: ZRP Dismisses Reports That Bulawayo Businessman Who Shot Himself Was Police

A Bulawayo businessman who allegedly shot himself on Sunday has been identified as Khumbulani Nsingo, with police confirming that he was not a member of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID).

Police confirm identity

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said Nsingo, who owned several bottle stores in Bulawayo and had business interests in Matabeleland South, died after shooting himself in the head with a pistol at an outdoor entertainment venue.

National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the death in a statement released to B-Metro.

He said:

“Police are still investigating the circumstances behind the suicide of the late Khumbulani Nsingo, a businessman in Bulawayo and Matabeleland South Province. The incident occurred on Sunday, and his body has been transferred to a local hospital for post-mortem.”

Comm Nyathi also dismissed speculation circulating on social media suggesting Nsingo was linked to the police.

“He was not a member of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP),” said Comm Nyathi.

Family appeals for privacy

The Nsingo family, represented by spokesperson Nhlanhla Nsingo, urged the public and media to allow them to grieve in private.

He said:

“We have just lost our brother and we ask for our family’s privacy to be respected.”

The family did not provide further details regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.

Friends recall warnings

According to those close to the businessman, Nsingo had made remarks in the days leading up to the tragedy that hinted at his state of mind.

A close associate, who asked not to be named, said:

“Last Friday, he kept saying we should take away his firearm as he was worried he might do something harmful to himself. We thought he was just stressed and needed time to cool off and figure out what was bothering him.”

The friend added that Nsingo’s sudden death left them shocked and filled with regret.

“On Sunday afternoon, just after midday, we received a call that Khumbu had shot himself in the head and his body was lying at [location withheld], and that police had been called to the scene. He was a jovial guy, and in hindsight, maybe we should have taken away his pistol and encouraged him to speak to someone about the problems he was facing.”

Police investigations into the suspected suicide are continuing.

Awareness note

Suicide is a sensitive issue. Experts encourage people who feel overwhelmed, hopeless, or at risk of self-harm to seek immediate help by speaking to trusted family members, friends, or professionals. In Zimbabwe, support is available through organisations such as Lifeline Zimbabwe (263 24 2700 900) and other mental health support services.