Online Reporter
Dalyn Chigwizura
A BULAWAYO teenager will spend the next two years behind bars after stabbing his neighbour over a simmering childhood grudge that boiled over at Sekusile Shopping Centre.
Qhawelenkosi Mnkandla (18) from Nkulumane suburb denied attempted murder but was nailed by overwhelming evidence. He was slapped with a five-year sentence on Friday, three years of which were suspended for five years on condition he does not re-offend.
Magistrate Taurai Manwere said that while Mnkandla was a youthful offender, “a custodial sentence is necessary to send a strong message.”
Prosecutor Christina Manyika told the court the incident happened on 19 July 2025. Mnkandla crossed paths with his 15-year-old rival at Sekusile.
“The complainant went to Sekusile Shopping Centre intending to download his homework. While there, he met Mnkandla and an argument arose over their long-standing beef,” said Manyika.
In the heat of the row, Mnkandla pulled out a knife and plunged it into the teen’s chest, leaving him bleeding and gasping for air.
The victim was rushed to Mpilo Central Hospital where he was treated for the stab wound.
