‘Breathing’ bag sets tongues wagging

Masvingo Correspondent
A “breathing” bag stashed with United States dollars has sent shivers down the spines of villagers at Mugadza under Chief Mugabe in Masvingo Province.
The person who left the bag also remains a mystery.
The bag stuck at Chikoto Bus Stop near Chikarudzo beerhall was first seen three weeks ago and by yesterday it was said to be still hanging from the bushes.

A commuter omnibus driver plying the Masvingo-Muchakata route who only identified himself as Mr Big said the bag has become the talk of the village.

“I think this is the third week seeing the bag hanging from a small bush near Chikoto bus stop. I personally gathered courage and went closer. I discovered that there are wads of United States dollar notes stashed inside. Beneath the money I saw pairs of tennis shoes,” he said.
Mr Big said chances are that someone once tried to take it but stopped because it seems the bag is  “breathing” giving an impression that there could be a living creature inside.

Acting village head Mugadza who also saw the mysterious bag while coming from a relative’s funeral  said the breathing sound could only be heard if someone moved closer to the bag.

“From a distance, the red bag would look like any other travelling bag but as one moves closer that is when you realise there is something wrong. We had to briefly stop the car we were travelling in as passengers wanted to catch a glimpse of the mysterious bag,” he said.
“Mischievous children in the area have also been warned against throwing stones at the bag and we do not know how the villagers in that area will deal with the issue. Chief Mugabe could have received the report. I will actually approach him.”

Contacted for comment Chief Mugabe confirmed receiving a report of the mysterious bag.
“Yes I can confirm receiving the report about the mysterious bag,” he said.

“However, the challenge we have is that we are now in November when we have stopped presiding over cases as chiefs. That could be the reason why the issue is being taken lightly by villagers.”