Online Reporter
By Peter Matika [email protected]
BULAWAYO is on edge as machete-wielding gangs run riot across the city’s suburbs, leaving residents battered, bruised and living in constant fear.
Communities in Queens Park, Sauerstown and Northend have been rocked by a wave of violent attacks that feel more like scenes from a horror movie than real life. Armed thugs are reportedly ambushing unsuspecting victims in broad daylight, swinging machetes and axes with chilling intent.
Bloodied victims have landed in the hospital, and residents are now demanding action.
“We need to feel safe in our own homes. These attacks are inhuman. Law enforcement must step up,” said Bulawayo United Residents Association (BURA) chairperson Mr Winos Dube.
Dube called for increased police patrols and urged residents to avoid secluded paths and rally behind neighbourhood watch committees to reclaim the streets.
Social media is ablaze with panic and pleas. One Facebook user wrote, “I used to walk my kids to school. Now I pay for private transport. I can’t risk it.”
The city’s fear is not unfounded. Four men believed to be behind the terror spree were hauled before the courts last Thursday. Hardlife Sibanda (28), Terrence Nqobile Ngwenya (24), Prince Ngulube (18), and Shelton Ncube (25) were charged with robbery after reportedly ambushing residents with machetes and axes.
Prosecutor Siphiwe Mhlanga said the gang launched their attacks in broad daylight, threatening to kill victims before robbing them.
The four were remanded in custody until May 22.
As the city grapples with this machete madness, residents say enough is enough and want their peace back.
