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Patrick Chitumba Midlands Bureau Chief
A serial rapist and killer could be on the loose in Zvishavane after the discovery of two decomposing female bodies in the last two weeks, police have warned.On Tuesday, a resident stumbled on the body of a female adult suspected to have been raped and murdered near Highlands.

The grisly discovery brings to two the number of bodies of women that have been found in the town in two weeks.

Acting Midlands provincial police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Ethel Mukwende confirmed the incidents.

She said the first body of a female adult was discovered about two weeks ago near Zvishavane District Hospital by a resident who alerted the police.

“It’s suspected that the woman was raped before she was murdered by an unknown assailant. Investigations are underway,” she said.

Asst Insp Mukwende said on Tuesday a herd boy, Panache Mazani was horrified to find the second body.

He said Mazani was attracted by a foul smell and went to investigate only to discover that it was a decomposing body of a woman.
Asst Insp Mukwende said Mazani made a report to the police who attended the scene.

“We suspect that in both cases the women could have been raped before they were murdered,” she said.

She appealed to members of the Zvishavane community to come forward and identify the bodies and also assist with information that might lead to the apprehension of the killer(s).

Asst Insp Mukwende said anyone with any information or leads should report it to any nearest police station.

She also urged women and girls to desist from walking in secluded places without a trusted guardian or parent.

“Women and girls should avoid walking in secluded places alone, especially at night. They’re also encouraged to make sure that they’re always in the company of the people they know to avoid unnecessary loss of life,” said Asst Insp Mukwende.