Online Reporter
Dalyn Chigwizura [email protected]
A 76-year-old Bulawayo man narrowly escaped a jail term after his sentence was wholly suspended after being convicted of assaulting a 66-year-old woman over a misunderstanding involving a refrigerator.
Enock Nkomo of Old Lobengula suburb appeared before Western Commonage magistrate, Mr Jeconia Prince Ncube, facing a charge of assault.
He pleaded guilty to the offence and was initially sentenced to four months in prison, which were wholly suspended for three years on condition he does not commit a similar offence within five years.
In his defence, Nkomo apologised to the court and the complainant, saying they were wrestling and that he had no intention of injuring her.
Prosecutor, Mr Tafara Dzimbanhete told the court that Nkomo and the complainant once stayed together as tenant and landlord.
He said on May 6, 2026, at around 6PM, Nkomo went to Egness Nyathi’s place of residence to collect his refrigerator, which was in Nyathi’s possession.
The court heard that a misunderstanding arose between the two, and Nkomo pushed the complainant, causing her to fall against the wall, resulting in a cut above her right eye and a swollen forehead.
A police report was made, leading to the arrest of Nkomo and the complainant sought medical attention, said Mr Dzimbanhete.
