Online Reporter
Moreblessing Ncube
A SOBUKHAZI High School teacher saw his quiet night turn into a horror movie after a driver and his tout allegedly teamed up to rob him shortly after giving him a lift.
The court heard that on 6 December around 9 PM, Mugariri Zhou, boarded a taxi from Matshobane to Machipisini in Makokoba. The vehicle was driven by Mhlonitshwa Nkiwane, with Nkosilathi Ncube in charge of touting duties.
In a flash, the ride turned into a nightmare as in a twist of irony, Mhlonitshwa whose name literally calls for respect reportedly did the complete opposite.
After Zhou disembarked, the duo allegedly stalked him like hyenas trailing a wounded buck. They followed him, hit him on the head with a brick and meted out a flurry of kicks all over his body. Zhou collapsed and lost consciousness as the pair helped themselves to his belongings.
They allegedly stripped him of his blue Samsung A23 and a wallet with US$20 inside, before speeding off into the night, leaving him sprawled on the ground.
Fortunately, passersby rushed to assist the dazed teacher, who later reported the attack to the police. His report set off a chain of events that led to the arrest of the two accused. Police even recovered the Samsung A23 from Nkiwane, who had already removed Zhou’s SIM card in what must have been his version of a “clean getaway”.
Prosecutor Brenda Ndlovu told the court the stolen goods were valued at US$130 and US$110 was recovered.
Nkiwane and Ncube appeared before Bulawayo Magistrate Vimbai Chirai, who remanded them in custody until 24 December. The pair pleaded not guilty, insisting they never attacked anyone.
