Andrew
Faith Duri in Masvingo
A HIGH court judge has granted $5 000 bail to a 71-year-old Chivi man who allegedly strangled to death a 6-year-old on suspicion that he had stolen sweet reeds from his field early this month.
Justice Sunsleey Zisengwe granted bail, coupled with stringent conditions, to Aphinos Gwatirinda of Charamba village in Gororo communal lands, who is facing a murder charge.
Gwatirinda was ordered not to interfere with state witnesses and reside at his given address until conclusion of the case.
In his defence Gwatirinda, who is represented by Mr Derick Charamba of Ndlovu and Hwacha law firm argued that the accused did not kill the deceased because the latter had a known history of fits.
He also argued that his client was a suitable candidate for bail as it would be difficult to interfere with state witnesses as the accused and the deceased’s family stayed 80 kilometres apart.
Allegations are that on March 4 this year, the now deceased was in the company of his two elder siblings and went to Gwatirinda’s field in Gororo where they started helping themselves to some sweet reeds.
Gwatirinda allegedly noticed the trio in his field and confronted them but the other two managed to escape, while the deceased was apprehended.
The accused then allegedly strangled the minor, after finding him holding some sweet reeds, resulting in his instant death.
A report was made to police leading to Gwatirinda’s arrest.
Ms Mukai Mutumwa appeared for the State.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter