adminThe incident that left tongues wagging in Tsholotsho happened at around 10pm in Lulwane village under Chief Gampu.
It is alleged that the accused, Cornelius Moyo, whose age could not be established, held a grudge against the now deceased, Fanisani Dumani, as he had refused to accept him as his brother-in-law.
Matabeleland North police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Siphiwe Makonese confirmed the incident yesterday.
She said the now deceased was watching television in his residence on the fateful day with his sister when the suspect paid him a visit.
“I can confirm we received a report of a man who was axed for refusing to accept his sister’s relationship. On New Year’s Day at around 10pm, the now deceased, Fanisani Dumani, was watching television with his sister and several other people,” said Asst Insp Makonese.
She said the suspect had a grudge against the man but did not say anything when he got to the homestead.
“When he arrived in the house, he never spoke to anyone and just left. He came back minutes later armed with an axe which was hidden under his T-shirt.
“He then drew the axe and struck Dumani three times on the back of his head and three times on the ribs,” said Asst Insp Makonese.
She said the man sustained head injuries and died on the spot and the suspect took his axe before running away without saying a word to anyone.
“We received a report the following day after the incident and police attended the scene. The body was taken to Mpilo Central Hospital for a post-mortem,” she said.
Asst Insp Makonese appealed to members of the public that may have information leading to the arrest of Moyo to report to the nearest police station or to effect a citizen’s arrest.
“I will continually urge members of the public to make use of the traditional leaders and the community relations office found at all police stations. People need to go for counselling to solve their disputes and misunderstandings rather than take the law into their hands,” said Asst Insp Makonese.
Blessing Chizhande