Couple killed over gossip

Bridgette Moyo Midlands Reporter
A Nkayi man allegedly hacked his 89-year-old neighbour to death with a machete before turning the same weapon on the wife after accusing them of spreading lies about him.

Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Joel Goko confirmed the murder of Joseph Rodreck and the hospitalisation of his wife Ntombizodzwa Bhebhe after they were attacked by Vusumuzi Mnkandla.

Insp Goko said the incident happened at Rodreck’s home at Rayland Farm in Lower Gweru last week.

He said Rodreck died on admission at Gweru Provincial Hospital, while his wife was still in hospital.

“I can confirm that we are investigating a murder case in which Joseph Roderick from Rayland Farm in Lower Gweru was allegedly stabbed to death by Vusumuzi Mnkandla (25),” said Insp Goko.

“Mnkandla allegedly visited the deceased home and accused him and his wife of spreading rumours about his life and a misunderstanding arose, leading to a fight.

“Mnkandla produced a machete and attacked Rodreck and his wife before fleeing from the scene. The two were rushed to the hospital and Rodreck died upon admission.”

Insp Goko appealed to members of the public who might have any information of Mnkandla whereabouts to report to any nearest police station.

In an unrelated matter, a suspected goat thief is facing attempted murder charges and stock theft charges after he shot at four villagers who were tracking his gang which is notorious for stealing goats in Lower Gweru.

Insp Goko said on Saturday at around 11pm, Hlahla Netha (22) of Lower Gweru got a tip off that an unknown group of men were seen passing by Shagari Business Centre with a lot of goats.

Netha, who had lost some of his goats, sought assistance from three fellow villagers who had also lost their goats and they started tracking the gang.

When they caught up with the gang, Lovemore Mpofu fired a shot at them.

“After shooting at Netha and three other villagers, Mpofu and his gang fled from the scene leaving the goats behind,” said Insp Goko. “Police have since launched a manhunt for him and his gang. He is facing attempted murder and stock theft charges. 17 goats were recovered.”