Man fatally stabbed over beer brawl on New Year’s Day

Danisa Masuku
A man from Bulawayo’s Old Pumula suburb died at Mpilo Central Hospital after being allegedly stabbed multiple times with an okapi knife in the stomach, resulting in his intestines protruding.
The spine-chilling incident that occurred on New Year’s Day shortly after 7:40pm was confirmed by Bulawayo acting police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele.
She expressed concern over the increasing number of murder and attempted murder cases stemming from drinking spots.
“Murder and attempted murder cases emanating from drinking spots are a cause for concern. We discourage members of the public from engaging in arguments while under the influence of alcohol,” she said.
She added, “We strongly urge beer outlet operators to conduct thorough searches of their patrons upon entry. Anyone found in possession of a weapon should be immediately reported to the police.”
On 1 January at the Old Pumula Beer Garden, Thembelenkosini Mlotshwa (29) was involved in an altercation with Khulekani Mjaho (31) over beer.
It is alleged that tempers flared, leading to Mjaho striking Mlotshwa on the head with an empty beer bottle.
In retaliation, Mlotshwa allegedly stabbed Mjaho multiple times in the stomach with an Okapi knife, causing his intestines to protrude.
One of the onlookers promptly called an ambulance, which swiftly arrived at the scene and rushed Mjaho to Mpilo Central Hospital where he died a few hours later.