Online Reporter
Fairness Moyana in Hwange
POLICE in Matabeleland North are investigating two separate murder cases that occurred within a week in Lupane District, leaving two young lives lost in incidents linked to domestic violence and a beer-drinking dispute.
In the first case, a 16-year-old girl, Sihlobo Luphahla, was killed during a domestic dispute at Ngondo Village in Jotsholo on the evening of 15 December, while the alleged perpetrator later committed suicide.
It is alleged that Francis Sibanda (41) went to the homestead of Ester Ndlovu, where his wife had reportedly sought refuge following a misunderstanding. While standing outside the yard, Sibanda allegedly hurled insults at the family, accused them of immoral behaviour and threatened to burn down the homestead and kill its occupants.
As tensions escalated, Sihlobo, who was Sibanda’s sister-in-law, reportedly stood at the kitchen door questioning his remarks. Moments later, a sound was heard from Sibanda’s direction, after which an unknown object struck the teenager on the chin, causing her to collapse.
Efforts by her mother and sister to render first aid were futile, and she died at the scene. Police later observed a dark mark and swelling on her chin, consistent with the point of impact.
The following day, Sibanda was found hanging from a tree near his homestead. A suicide note was recovered from his bedroom hut, indicating that he had taken his own life. Police said no visible injuries were observed on his body.
In a separate incident, Benedict Dlamini (23) of Makhandeni Village, under Chief Mabhikwa, was stabbed to death following a beer-drinking dispute at Lupaka Business Centre on December 22.
Matabeleland North provincial police spokesperson Inspector Glory Banda said Dlamini and the suspect, Robin Sibanda (20), had been drinking beer at Magobisa General Dealer when a misunderstanding arose over an unresolved issue.
“Although other patrons initially restrained the two, the dispute persisted even after Dlamini was taken to another shop in an attempt to calm the situation,” said Inspector Banda.
The suspect allegedly followed Dlamini, produced an okapi knife and stabbed him once on the right side of the chest before fleeing the scene.
Dlamini was rushed to Lupaka Clinic, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The suspect remains at large and police have launched a manhunt.
Inspector Banda confirmed the two murder cases and appealed to the public to shun violence.
“We are investigating two murder cases in Lupane District involving domestic violence and a beer-drinking dispute. One suspect is still at large, while the other died by suicide. We strongly urge members of the public to resolve disputes peacefully. Differences should be addressed through dialogue, community leadership structures or by reporting matters to the police, rather than resorting to violence.”
The bodies of the deceased were taken to United Bulawayo Hospitals and St Luke’s Hospital mortuary, respectively, for post-mortem examinations as investigations continue.
