Soldier on the run

Adelaide Moyo Chronicle Reporter
A SOLDIER stationed at 1.2 Infantry Battalion in Hwange who allegedly severely assaulted a fellow imbiber with a log leaving him for dead, is reportedly on the run after the victim died on Monday.

Learnmore Moyo, 24, has been facing attempted murder charges for attacking Gabrone Ncube, 45, from Chidobe Village 5 but is now likely to be charged with murder after the victim succumbed to his injuries while in the Intensive Care Unit at Mpilo Central Hospital.

Ncube had been admitted for more than two weeks following the attack early this month. He died on Monday as a result of the injuries sustained, his family confirmed yesterday.

Victoria Falls magistrate, Sharon Rosemani yesterday issued a warrant of arrest for Moyo after he skipped bail.

Moyo, who was released on his own cognisance, had not been asked to plead to attempted murder.

Prosecutors confirmed receiving a report about Ncube’s death but said no legal action had been taken yet.

Ncube’s sister, Patricia confirmed to the Chronicle that her brother died while in hospital on Monday.

“We received some news yesterday at around 6PM that my brother had died. I believe his death was a result of the injuries sustained from the beating because he was still complaining of pain in the head.

“We thought he was getting better because he had regained consciousness and would ask about his daughter,” she said.

It is yet to be established why Moyo assaulted Ncube.

Prosecuting, Takunda Ndovorwi said Moyo and Ncube were drinking beer at Chidobe Business Centre just outside Victoria Falls town with other patrons on June 7.

“On June 7, while at Chidobe Shopping Centre, the accused struck Gabrone Ncube, who was drinking beer, with a log,” said Ndovorwi.

Ncube allegedly fell down and lost consciousness following the assault.

Ndovorwi said Ncube also sustained a deep cut on the forehead. The court was told that patrons and members of the public effected a citizens’ arrest on Moyo and handed him over to the police. Ncube was rushed to Victoria Falls Hospital where he was immediately transferred to Bulawayo.