adminGeorge Maponga in Masvingo
At least seven families in the Chipindu area of Chivi recently had their homes torched by a four-man gang in the culmination of a long-running feud over the village headship and allegations of witchcraft.
The gang, allegedly comprising brothers Thomas (47) and Edson (age not given) Chapeta, both based in South Africa, Jefias Mundoga (age not given) also based in SA) and Jealous Marira (age not given) living at Stop Over near Masvingo), allegedly torched homes, granaries, chicken coops, solar panels, cattle pens and household property, all worth more than US$10 000, before allegedly beat up several villagers at Mhare village in Chipindu.
The incident happened a few days ago after the gang descended on Mhare village armed with sticks, pistols and machetes.
Those who were assaulted sustained body bruises but no one was hospitalised and all are in a stable condition.
Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa said villagers who lost their homes in the rabid attack were Mhare village head Mr Vurayayi Mukeda (77), Mr Rabson Chapeta (50), Mr Milton Mujakachi (42), Mr Gwatipedza Madenyika(51), Mr Munashe Mutero (67), Mrs Linet Vurayayi (69) and Mrs Margaret Chigaro (57).
He said the alleged gang members fled to South Africa after the attack.
“The suspects were travelling in three Toyota Quantum vehicles and two other unidentified vehicles when they descended at Mhare village. They are all still on the run and we suspect that they might have gone back to South Africa. We are still looking for them,” said Inspector Dhewa.
“They will be charged with malicious damage to property and assault,” said Inspector Dhewa.
The gang first torched homes, granaries, cattle pens and chicken coops before rounding up the hapless villagers whom they accused of dabbling in witchcraft while village head Mukeda stood accused of forcefully taking over the position which the gang allegedly claimed was left to the Chapeta brothers by their late father.
After ordering the victims to gather one of the gang members fired a warning shot into the air before the rest joined in kicking, slapping, punching them and hitting them with their sticks.
They disappeared in their vehicles after the incident and a report was made to Chivi police.
Online Reporter