Man in court over girlfriend’s murder

The juveline, who cannot be named, appeared at the Mutare Magistrates Court. He appeared before provincial magistrate, Poterai Gwezhira, on Saturday, where he was advised of the charge before the matter was deferred to July 23, for routine remand.

Yeukai Karengezeka-Chisepo-Court Correspondent

A 44-YEAR-OLD man from Harare has appeared in court facing murder charges after allegedly assaulting his girlfriend following a misunderstanding, resulting in her death.

Shamiso Kandalasi (33) died after sustaining injuries during the alleged assault.

Kenneth Chendambuya of Tarisa Park, Ruwa, appeared before Harare magistrate Ms Lynne Chinzou yesterday.

He was not asked to plead to the murder charge and was remanded in custody to a date pending indictment before the High Court.

Prosecutor Mr Takudzwa Jambawu alleged that on June 1 at around 10:30pm, Chendambuya went to a bar where Kandalasi was drinking.

The two were reportedly in a romantic relationship.

The court heard that a misunderstanding arose between the pair, leading to an altercation.

It is alleged that Chendambuya assaulted Kandalasi with open hands and struck her with an empty beer bottle, causing her to fall to the ground.

The prosecution further alleged that he then grabbed Kandalasi by the neck and strangled her. Witnesses reportedly intervened and restrained Chendambuya from continuing the assault.

After the incident, Kandalasi went home while allegedly experiencing severe pain. Chendambuya is said to have followed her there.

According to the State, Chendambuya later took Kandalasi to Mabvuku Polyclinic for medical attention, but she was pronounced dead upon arrival.