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Peter Matika, Chronicle Reporter 

A FAMILY in Northend has launched a public appeal for information that could lead them to reunite with their family members who reportedly went missing a few months back.

Nyasha Chirwa a former serving member of the Zimbabwe National Army based at Mzilikazi Barracks formerly Brady Barracks is reported to have gone missing together with his son Teddy Ngqabutho Nxumalo and nephew, Anthony Nxumalo.

According to the Northend community initial hell started when Chirwa deserted the army informing acquaintances and his family that he was against the use of the army by the ruling Zanu-PF to allegedly harass the public.

Teddy Ngqabutho Nxumalo

“The three used to stay together in Northend, with Chirwa taking in Anthony from a tender age after his mother and father separated. Now, after Chirwa deserted the army he was targeted, which led him in October to be arrested.

“The two cousins who claimed that when Chirwa was arrested were also beaten up attempted to report the matter to the police but they were turned back with the police alleging that there was no evidence that Chirwa had been arrested, even claiming that since he was a deserter he was already on the wanted list,” said a family member who declined to be named.

The family member claimed that Chirwa managed to escape custody but was now paranoid revealing that he had been threatened not to desert the army.

“He told us that he had information regarding the operations of the army and the ruling party hence his family and himself were no longer safe hence he feared for his and their lives.

“As is we do not even know where they are, we just walk up to be told by neighbours that the house was empty and they did not know where the three had disappeared to. We appeal to anyone who might know their whereabouts to assist us because they are our family and we are worried,” said the relative.

Neighbours who spoke to this publication revealed that Teddy and Anthony had confided in them that they were now scared after the ordeal they faced when Chirwa was arrested.