Trevor Dongo’s 2 Lovers Remanded Over Fire That Burned Down Musician’s Flat

Court Date Set For Women Who Burnt Down Trevor Dongo’s Home

Two women accused of setting a fire that destroyed popular Zimbabwean musician Trevor Dongo’s flat have been remanded. The blaze, which erupted on 21 March 2025, tore through his rented apartment at Lombard Mansions in Harare’s CBD, gutting nearly everything in sight and leaving a trail of charred belongings — and controversy.

Tanaka Mafukidze (24) and Prudent Chipo Musimike (25), both linked to the singer, appeared at the Harare Magistrates’ Court charged with malicious damage to property. Their trial is scheduled to begin on 11 June 2025.

“The matter is serious and under investigation. The property damage is estimated at US$21,178.00 (R392,000),” said the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ).

“Both accused have been remanded pending trial.”

Flat fire started after lovers’ quarrel

According to the NPAZ, the drama began when Mafukidze, believed to be Dongo’s girlfriend, visited the flat after lunch with her friend Musimike. The singer invited her over — but reportedly didn’t know she’d bring company.

“A disagreement broke out between Dongo and Mafukidze regarding Musimike’s unexpected presence,” stated the NPAZ.

“Dongo left shortly afterward to pick up a friend. That’s when things escalated.”

Left alone, the two women allegedly continued arguing. At some point, emotions boiled over, and the bedroom was reportedly set on fire.

“When Dongo returned, he found the apartment engulfed in flames,” read the official court summary.

“Tenants were already scrambling to rescue those trapped inside.”

Witnesses described panic as flames engulfed the unit. One woman allegedly fled the flat naked, while the other was stranded on the first floor, forcing neighbours to create a makeshift rescue mattress so she could jump.

“She landed badly and got injured. We just thank God no one died,” said a neighbour who spoke to H-Metro.

“The fire nearly spread to the rest of the building. We were using buckets of water to control it until fire crews arrived.”

Trevor denies ex-lover drama, calls out false reports

Trevor Dongo, known for romantic ballads and his “Ladies’ Man” image, was not home when the fire began but sustained minor burns trying to rescue his belongings.

“I lost everything. Clothes, shoes, studio equipment, documents. The flat is gone,” he told police during his statement at Harare Central Police Station on 26 March.

Initial reports suggested the fire may have been started by a jealous ex who found Dongo with another woman — but the artist rejected those claims.

Harare police confirmed the incident and the injuries.

“We’re investigating a fire at a flat in the Avenues area. The flat was destroyed. A local musician and a female companion were treated for minor burns,” said Inspector Luckmore Chakanza.

The NPAZ urged the public to resolve conflicts peacefully, reminding citizens that violence — no matter the emotional stakes — has lasting consequences.