A shocking kidnapping and torture-style plot allegedly linked to the son of late former Transport Minister Joel Biggie Matiza has exploded at the Harare Magistrates Court, with one woman arrested and another suspect on the run over claims they were hired to terrorise a man’s ex-wife.
The scandal has thrust Batsirai Matiza into the spotlight after prosecutors alleged he orchestrated a disturbing campaign targeting his former wife, Annalisa Muguwe, in a case now sending shockwaves through Harare.
Elizabeth Magama, 30, appeared before Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo facing attempted kidnapping charges after allegedly working with accomplice Amariah Gumbo to abduct Muguwe on Matiza’s behalf.
According to court papers, the drama began on May 12 when Magama and Gumbo allegedly contacted Muguwe requesting a meeting over issues involving her former husband.
Sensing danger, Muguwe reportedly refused to meet them privately and instead directed them to ZRP Rhodesville Police Station.
But prosecutors say the situation quickly spiralled into a bizarre criminal plot.
The court heard that Magama and Gumbo allegedly confessed they had been sent by Matiza to assault Muguwe. The pair allegedly convinced her to pose for a distressed photograph meant to serve as “proof” to him.
However, investigators say the alleged evidence was rejected.
Two days later, prosecutors allege the suspects returned to Muguwe’s residence at around 9PM and escalated the operation dramatically.
The pair allegedly tied Muguwe to a tree before recording a fake torture-style video designed to portray her as severely assaulted and traumatised.
In another chilling twist, the court heard that on May 16 the suspects allegedly returned claiming they had brought US$20 000 from Matiza to resolve a “breach of promise to marry” dispute.
But once inside the house, prosecutors say the suspects allegedly changed their story completely, informing Muguwe they had actually come to forcibly remove her to a mental institution on Matiza’s instructions.
The court heard Matiza was allegedly waiting outside while the operation unfolded.
The alleged abduction was only stopped after Muguwe’s brother intervened, triggering chaos at the property.
According to prosecutors, the suspects allegedly admitted they were desperate because US$20 000 was allegedly at stake following repeated failed attempts to execute Matiza’s instructions.
Police were called to the scene, leading to Gumbo fleeing before officers arrived while Magama was arrested on the spot.
Batsirai Matiza is now reportedly being sought by investigators as police widen probes into the explosive allegations.
The case has ignited widespread outrage online, with many Zimbabweans expressing shock over the alleged involvement of the son of one of ZANU PF’s late senior figures in a case involving alleged kidnapping, intimidation and psychological abuse.
Magama was remanded in custody while investigations continue.
