A Zimbabwean murder accused Anesu Hwenjere who is alleged to have brutally killed his cousin Victor Mashenge has maintained a chilling silence in court since his arraignment last year, refusing to utter a single word in his own defence, let alone apply for bail.
Hwenjere is accused of killing Mashinge between January 5 and 8, 2025, by allegedly hitting him with a rock before he reportedly beheaded him, cut off his arm and manhood, and dump his body in a pit latrine. Mashinge was eventually buried without his private parts upon discovery whilst his head and arm were recovered along with the body.
Hwenjere once appeared before Extension II Magistrate Court for a status update every two weeks for a year now where the State confirmed that investigations into the gruesome murder are almost complete.
“The investigations are complete however, we yet to type statements. As soon as that has been done, the matter will be forwarded to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP),” he said. The case will be handed to the DPP for committal to the High Court to set trial dates for the gruesome murder.
Additionally, the State moved an application to further remand the accused in custody. “May the accused be remanded in custody until the next court date,” he said.
Since his first court appearance, Hwenjere has consistently chosen to remain silent. When asked by Chief Magistrate Kamogelo Mmesi if he had anything or wishes to make any application before the court, his response has been the same; “nothing to say,” Hwenjere said. Notably, he has never applied for bail.
His continued silence now stretching over a year since his arraignment has drawn attention in the courtroom with proceedings often concluding swiftly due to his refusal to engage. The matter is set for March 11,2026 for status update. The case continues.
