Man axes brother to death

Amos Mpofu, [email protected]
A TRAGIC beer-drinking spree in Nkayi District, Matabeleland North Province, turned fatal when a man allegedly axed his brother to death following a heated dispute.

The incident took place on Sunday evening around 8pm at Sila Village under Chief Sikhobokhobo area.

Mlibazisi Ndlovu, the suspect, is accused of fatally striking his brother, Njabulo Ndlovu, with the back of an axe after a dispute escalated into violence. According to police reports, the brothers were drinking opaque beer at their father’s homestead when the altercation occurred.

Matabeleland North provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Glory Banda, yesterday confirmed the incident, saying investigations are ongoing.

“The suspect and the deceased, who are brothers, had a misunderstanding. The former accused their mother, Sikhulile Moyo, of troubling his wife and this angered the now-deceased,” said Insp Banda.

The situation spiralled when Njabulo pushed his brother in response to the accusation. In a fit of rage, Mlibazisi picked up an axe from a nearby tree and struck Njabulo once on the head, using the back of the weapon. Njabulo collapsed to the ground as a result of the blow.

Despite briefly regaining consciousness, Njabulo’s condition worsened. He was carried back to his home before being rushed to Mbuma Mission Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries the following morning, around 9.30am.

A report was then made to the police, leading to Mlibazisi’s arrest.

The axe used in the attack was recovered at the scene, and Njabulo’s body was taken to Nkayi District Hospital mortuary, pending a post-mortem at the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH).

Insp Banda expressed concern over the increasing incidences of violence during disputes.

“We urge people to resolve their disagreements amicably rather than resorting to violence. This incident is a tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of such actions. As police, we would like to warn perpetrators of violence that they will face the full weight of the law,” said the police spokesperson.