Axe attack horror at Maplanka Complex

The teenager was convicted of stealing five beasts from his elderly neighbours and selling them to unsuspecting buyers

Moreblessing Ncube

A BULAWAYO man has been remanded in custody after he allegedly robbed and viciously attacked a 50-year-old man with an axe.

Mpumelelo Nkomo (23) of Nketa appeared before Bulawayo Magistrate Mark Dzira facing charges of attempted murder and theft. He was remanded in custody until 8 September.

Prosecutor Siphiwe Mhlanga told the court that on June 11, at Maplanka Complex, Nkomo snatched a wallet belonging to Tafadzwa Given Siyangare. The wallet contained US$400.

After stealing the wallet, Nkomo allegedly struck Given on the forehead with the back of an axe, intending to kill him.

The brutal attack left the victim with serious head injuries.

Police investigations revealed that none of the stolen cash was recovered.

Residents expressed shock at the brazen daylight violence, saying robberies in the city are taking a disturbing turn with criminals now arming themselves with dangerous weapons.

Nkomo will remain behind bars while the case continues, as Given recovers from his wounds.