Suspect in Dual Murder Sent Back to Chikurubi for Psychiatric Review
A 53-year-old man who spent over a decade at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison’s psychiatric unit has been recommitted to psychiatric custody after allegedly committing two brutal murders at a mining site, two years after his release.
Jealous Tomasi was placed under psychiatric care by court order in 2008 after the court returned a special verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity in the murder of a neighbourhood watch member.
He was later released following years of treatment and was eventually accused of reoffending under similar circumstances.
According to State papers, Tomasi allegedly heard people fighting outside, left his cabin, and joined the scuffle without being involved — then struck one of the men with an axe.
A second victim — a neighbour who came to check what was happening was also fatally attacked.
Tomasi fled the scene but was later arrested and recommitted on July 12, 2023, under the Mental Health Act.
A psychiatric evaluation conducted by Dr. Mazorodze in February 2025 found him fit to stand trial and suitable for conditional release into a relative’s care.
However, as The Herald reported, the High Court overturned that recommendation.
In her ruling, Justice Catherine Bachi-Mzawazi held that a single psychiatric opinion was insufficient in a case involving prior violent offences.
She directed that Tomasi be placed under further psychiatric management and presented before a special board, in accordance with Sections 29(4) to 29(7) of the Mental Health Act.
“The accused needs continued treatment and formal placement before the Mental Health Review Tribunal,” said the judge, emphasising the need to follow all legal and clinical protocols before discharge is considered.
Tomasi remains in psychiatric supervision pending a comprehensive assessment by the relevant authorities.
