adminMercy Ngwebvu
KILLING his brother over two chicken pieces backfired on a Chipinge man after a High Court judge slapped him with a 16-year jail term last week.
Robert Garahwa Khumbula (21) appeared before High Court judge, Mr Justice Charles Hungwe who was on circuit in Mutare and pleaded not guilty to murder.
He was, however, convicted of murder with constructive intent.
Prosecuting, law officer, Ms Rose Matsikidze, said Robert stabbed his elder brother, Mind Khumbula on his left side right under the ribs and he sustained deep injuries from which he eventually died.
“On the day in question, Mind was drinking beer with his two friends, Freddy Chakala and Samson Sigauke. The accused approached them and asked Mind to give him two of the chicken pieces he was eating, but Mind refused.
“This did not go down well with the accused who pointed a knife at his brother.
“Sensing danger, Mind fled, but Robert gave chase. He caught up with Mind and stabbed him twice before running away.
“Freddy, who was also following the two, arrived a few minutes after the stabbing and heard his friend saying “ndaurairwa huku yangu” (he has killed me because of my chicken), before he died,” said Ms Matsikidze.
Testifying in court, Khumbula had said a fight had ensued between him and his brother who had refused to share opaque beer with him, adding that he had stabbed his brother with no intentions of killing him.
However, Mr Justice Hungwe said Khumbula’s behaviour was unacceptable in society, adding that people like him should be dealt with accordingly.
Online Reporter