Staff Reporter

ZVISHAVANE – A pall of grief has descended over Gudhuza Village in Zvishavane following the deaths of five family members, believed to have succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning after sleeping with a charcoal brazier (mbaura) in their bedroom.

The victims have been identified by police as Jeremiah Simango (42), John Ncube (57), Nigel Ncube, Denzel Simango (15), and Joedire Simango (8).

The tragedy occurred on Sunday night, leaving the close-knit community in deep mourning.
In a statement posted on its official X handle, the Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed the tragic loss.

“The ZRP confirms a tragic incident in which five family members died at Gudhuza Village, Zvishavane after they had brought a charcoal brazier into their bedroom to warm themselves overnight on 20/07/25,” the statement read.

It is suspected that the family succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning, a silent killer that often strikes without warning when charcoal or firewood is burnt in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces.

The bodies have been taken to Zvishavane District Hospital Mortuary for post-mortem examinations.

New Ziana