Moffat Mungazi
Solomon Bhumu
Post Reporter
IN a shocking and disturbing incident, a 25-year-old man from Chidawanyika village under Chief Mutasa took his own life after severely assaulting his mother, leaving her on the brink of death.
Acting Manicaland police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the incident which occurred on March 26, and said Kudakwashe Machiwana brutalized his mother, Irene Machiwana (67), before he took his own life.
“We confirm the death of Kudakwashe Machiwana, who tragically took his own life after assaulting his mother,” he said.
Police reports indicate that the events leading to the tragedy began at around 10pm on March 26, when a heated argument broke out between Kudakwashe and Machiwana.
The dispute reportedly started after Machiwana refused to allow Kudakwashe to visit his biological father, who resides in Mutare.
In a fit of rage, Kudakwashe grabbed a hammer and brutally attacked his mother, repeatedly striking her on the head and left her lying unconscious on the ground, bleeding severely from her wounds.
Partmore Nyamwanza, a concerned neighbor rushed to the scene after hearing a loud noise and suspected that something was wrong.
He found Machiwana lying on the ground, writhing in agony, while Kudakwashe was standing outside armed with the hammer he was using in the attack.
According to Nyamwanza’s statement to the police, Machiwana lost unconsciousness, he quickly sought help from Raphael Chidawanyika, another neighbhour.
Upon their arrival at the scene, they saw Kudakwashe lying on the ground with froth coming out of his mouth.
He had gulped a pesticide chemical, whose container was beside him.
Both Kudakwashe and Machiwana were immediately rushed to Tsonzo Clinic for medical attention.
Unfortunately, Kudakwashe was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Irene, was however transferred to Victoria Chitepo Hospital, where she is receiving specialised care.
Authorities at the provincial referral hospital said she is still in critical condition.
Police investigations revealed that Kudakwashe had a pre-existing history of mental health issues, and it was further discovered that he had taken his own life, believing he had killed his mother in the brutal attack.
“The police encourage members of the public to resolve family disputes and misunderstandings peacefully without causing harm to one another, which might lead to lose of life,” said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka.
Online Reporter