Plumtree monster ‘Predator’ Mathe back in chains after Malawi capture

By Staff Reporter

PLUMTREE – Notorious fugitive Cabangani “Predator” Mathe is back behind bars after his dramatic run from justice ended in humiliation across the border in Malawi.

The 38-year-old Plumtree man, once feared and untouchable, was hauled back into Zimbabwe in handcuffs after Malawian authorities busted him wandering without identification — exposing his desperate life on the run.

Zimbabwe Republic Police national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the dramatic takedown, revealing that Mathe was deported and immediately seized by CID Homicide detectives.

The arrest slams the brakes on Mathe’s brazen escape after he had been serving a 20-year prison sentence for violent crimes that terrorised Plumtree residents.

For a community that once celebrated his imprisonment with tears, ululations and dancing outside the courthouse, his earlier escape had reopened wounds and unleashed fresh fear.

Mathe’s name has long been whispered in fear.

He allegedly ruled through intimidation, with residents claiming he used money, influence and threats to silence victims and dodge justice.

Among the chilling accusations haunting him is the alleged rape of a woman before she was smuggled across the border into Botswana, where she was later killed — a case that continues to cast a dark shadow over the region.

He also stands accused of brutal torture, including allegedly handcuffing a woman and plunging her underwater in a terrifying act of violence.

Even more disturbing are allegations that he sexually exploited a minor who worked at his shop over several months between 2024 and 2025.

Now back in custody and facing the full might of the law, the man once feared as “Predator” has fallen — and Plumtree is watching closely to ensure he never walks free again.