Man assaults wife who asked for rent money

Musawenkosi Moyo

MONEY is the root of all evil!

This adage was at play when a 52-year-old man from Nkulumane, Bulawayo found himself in court after assaulting his wife as punishment for asking for money to pay rent.

Gilbert Phiri appeared before Western Commonage magistrate Skhethile Moyo facing one count of physical abuse.

He pleaded guilty to the charge and was sentenced to six months imprisonment of which three months were suspended for five years on condition that he does not commit a similar offense within that period.

A further three months were suspended on condition that he completes 105 hours of community service at Nkulumane Police Station.

The court heard that on 30 October 2024, while at their home, the complainant, Memory Chiwatu (42), approached the accused, who was preparing to go to work, and asked him for money to pay rent.

It was heard that the accused became angry at the complainant and began accusing her of infidelity. He then proceeded to hit her several times all over the body with booted feet and fists, and strangled her.

The matter was reported to the police, leading to the arrest of Phiri. Chiwatu was referred to the hospital for medical examination, and a medical report was produced in court as evidence.