Online Reporter
Dalyn Chigwizura, Court Reporter
AN unrepentant Bulawayo man who struck his neighbour with a brick, fracturing one of his ribs after being reprimanded for harassing a child, was yesterday sentenced to two years in prison.
Prince Matete (27) of Mabutweni suburb was convicted of attempted murder by Western Commonage regional magistrate, Mr Pasipanodya Maturure.
He will serve an effective 27 months behind bars after Mr Maturure activated three months previously suspended for assault conviction in April.
Prosecuting, Mr Milton Moyo told the court that the incident occurred on August 16.
“On that day, the accused went to the complainant, Mr Nqobizitha Bangira’s house in Mabutweni suburb where he found Mr Bangira’s two daughters plaiting each other’s hair,” said Mr Moyo.
Matete approached one of the girls and grabbed her necklace.
Mr Bangira, who was sitting nearby, immediately intervened, reprimanding Matete for harassing his daughter and ordering him to leave the premises.
The court heard that Matete walked away, only to return minutes later to find Mr Bangira standing at his gate.
Matete then picked up a brick and struck the complainant on the left side of his ribs before fleeing.
Mr Bangira was rushed to hospital, where doctors confirmed he had suffered a fractured rib. A police report was filed, leading to Matete’s arrest.
derick.khumalo