Online Reporter
Yeukai Karengezeka-Court Correspondent
A DISPUTE over an unpaid debt escalated into a violent assault that left a pregnant woman from Eastview Phase 2 with a fractured leg and unable to walk without assistance.
The accused, 25-year-old Mellisa Takaramba, appeared before Harare provincial magistrate Rufaro Panavanhu on Wednesday, facing charges of assault. Takaramba, who lives in the same neighbourhood as the victim, pleaded not guilty. She was granted bail of US$100 and is set to return to court on January 26 for the start of her trial.
The complainant, 23-year-old Patience Guyo, endured the harrowing attack on January 3 around 5:30 p.m.
Prosecutor Chiedza Musakwa, presenting the state’s case, said Takaramba approached Guyo demanding repayment of an undisclosed sum.
Guyo’s responsedetails of which were not provided in court—reportedly angered Takaramba, triggering the assault.
In a fit of rage, Takaramba allegedly struck Guyo on the cheek before punching her repeatedly all over her body. As Guyo tried to stand, the attack intensified.
Takaramba allegedly shoved her to the ground, straddled her and continued to beat her. The assault only ended when a neighbour, Tariro Banda, intervened and restrained Takaramba.
The consequences of the attack were severe.
Guyo sustained a fractured right leg and appeared in court with her leg visibly swollen and heavily bandaged.
Limping and requiring support to walk, she told the court she is still receiving medical treatment for her injuries.
derick.khumalo