peterSharon Chimenya, Masvingo Correspondent
A 41-year-old Chiredzi man was last week fatally assaulted when he refused to swap a Madison cigarette for an Everest one at Chipinda Business Centre in Chikombedzi.
Aleck Maluleke of Chihosi Village, Chief Chilonga was allegedly assaulted using a snooker stick by Taonga Zondekaya (28) of the same village for refusing to swap cigarettes.
Masvingo police spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa said as the police they were worried over the increase in murder cases emanating from petty issues.
“The cases of violence resulting in murder cases over petty issues are becoming worrisome and members of the public should value the sanctity of life.
Fighting over petty issues should be avoided at all costs.
In Chikombedzi on 17 June around 9pm Maluleke bought a Madison cigarette at Chipinda Business Centre while Zondekaya bought an Everest.
Zondekaya asked that they swap their cigarettes which Maluleke refused. Zondekaya got angry and started beating Maluleke with a snooker stick,” he said.
Insp Dhewa said Guide Madinda who was in a nearby shop tried to refrain Zondekaya from further assaulting Maluleke but was overpowered.
Zondekaya left Maluleke complaining of chest pains and abdominal injuries.
The matter was reported to the police on 18 June and Maluleke was referred to Chambuta Clinic.
He died while waiting for an ambulance to be ferried to Chiredzi General Hospital.
Insp Dhewa said Zondekaya is still on the run with investigations underway.
Online Reporter