Online Reporter
Moreblessing Ncube, [email protected]
A HEATED yard argument turned deadly in Village AI, Hope Fountain, after a 27-year-old man bludgeoned his neighbour with a pick handle, killing him in front of shocked witnesses.
Nanzelela Ncube, now facing a murder charge, appeared before Bulawayo Magistrate Mrs Dambudzo Malunga this week and pleaded guilty to causing the death of his neighbour, only identified in court as Dube.
The violent drama played out on 2 February 2025 around 6PM. Ncube stormed over to Dube’s homestead, allegedly to question him about an issue involving his wife.
The simple conversation erupted into chaos.
According to State Prosecutor Mr Owen Mugari, the confrontation turned ugly when the two men squared off in the yard. Dube was reportedly doing yard work when Ncube approached, demanding answers about what his wife wanted from Dube’s home.
In court, Ncube admitted to the fatal assault, but claimed it was self-defence.
“I admit the allegations,” said a visibly shaken Ncube. “I did not mean to kill him. He tried to hit me with a pick, but he missed. In panic, I grabbed it from him, removed the metal head, and used the handle to hit him on the head and shoulders.”
But the beating proved fatal. Dube collapsed from his injuries and was rushed to hospital, where he died. The community was left stunned by the swift and deadly escalation of what began as a domestic enquiry.
Court officials say Ncube’s version of events will be weighed against forensic reports and witness statements as the case progresses.
The suspect has been remanded in custody until 20 May, with police continuing to probe the circumstances surrounding the deadly clash.
Sources from Hope Fountain say tensions had been simmering between the two men for weeks, but no one expected it would end in bloodshed.
“This was personal,” said one resident who asked not to be named. “You don’t go to someone’s yard with that kind of anger unless something serious is going on behind the scenes.”
