Bira ceremony ends in murder as siblings kill brother

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MWENEZI – A family Bira ceremony in Nyika Village, under Chief Maranda, ended in tragedy after three brothers allegedly murdered their sibling, Takesure Gwezuva (41), over a dispute during the traditional ritual.

Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Dhewa confirmed the incident, which occurred on October 18, 2025, around 2 PM.

The three brothers, Coleen Gwezuva (42), Taona Gwezuva (45), and Sheunesu Gwezuva (29) reportedly opposed the holding of the bira, a traditional Shona ritual intended to communicate with ancestors and seek their guidance.

The ceremony had been organized by Hnulanini Gwezuva, the father of the four brothers. Takesure was the only one who supported the idea, and the disagreement is believed to have been the key factor leading to the violent confrontation.

According to police accounts, during the ceremony, an altercation ensued between the brothers, Taona and Sheunesu grabbed Takesure while Coleen struck him once on the head with a large stick. The blow caused a deep head injury, leaving him bleeding and unconscious.

Takesure was rushed to Mwenezi District Hospital around 3 PM the same day. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries and died on October 19.

Inspector Dhewa appealed to the public for assistance in locating the accused, who remain at large.

“Investigations are in progress, and we appeal to members of the public for any information that may help us arrest the three,” he said.

The case has cast a spotlight on how deeply held beliefs and disagreements over traditional practices can escalate into fatal family conflicts, turning a ceremony meant for unity and guidance into a scene of irreversible loss.