Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
A LATE-NIGHT act of kindness turned into a bloodbath in Maphisa after a 32-year-old man was brutally murdered while helping a stranded couple start their broken-down car.
Police in Matabeleland South have launched a manhunt for three machete-wielding suspects who struck Chelesani Moyo on the back of the head before he collapsed and died near J Mafuyana Township.
According to police, the incident occurred in the early hours of 29 June around 3:30AM.
Moyo, of Falcon Mine Compound, had come across Tinashe Ngwenya and his girlfriend Sinikiwe Ncube parked in a Nissan Sunny at Mafuyana grounds.
“He inquired why they were explained that the car had a mechanical fault and needed a push start. Moyo offered to help,” said police spokesperson Inspector Chiratidzo Dube.
But as the good Samaritan pushed the car, horror struck.
“Three unknown men suddenly appeared, armed with machetes. One of them struck Moyo at the back of the head,” said Insp Dube.
Moyo tried to flee but collapsed after running about 100 metres.
Ngwenya was also attacked but fought back, grabbing the machete and sustaining deep cuts on both hands during the struggle. He managed to escape as the attackers gave chase.
At around 6AM, a passerby stumbled upon Moyo’s lifeless body and alerted police.
“The body was found lying on the ground with a deep cut on the back of the head. It was positively identified by a relative,” said Insp Dube.
A murder investigation has since been launched, and police are appealing to the public for any information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects.
“The police will not rest until these heartless murderers are brought to book,” said Insp Dube.
Residents of Maphisa have been left shaken, with many now afraid to offer help at night.
