adminSUSPICION that he had killed a man with whom he had had a misunderstanding left a Chipinge teenager so guilty that he committed suicide last week.
Deputy Manicaland provincial police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Luxson Chananda confirmed the death of James Mashava (18) of Mudzimwa Village under Chief Mutema.
He said James was drinking beer at Mutema Business Centre in the company of Phillip Sarudzai (66) and Samuel Mujeki (23) when he had a misunderstanding with Sarudzai.
“The trio had been drinking together since dusk. At around 10pm, Mashava had a misunderstanding with the 66-year-old Sarudzai and he started assaulting him with fists. When Mujeki tried to stop the brawl, Mashava became angry and started attacking him too.
“Mashava then picked up a hammer which he used to assault Mujeki several times on the head. Mujeki subsequently fell down and became unconscious. Thinking that Mujeki was dead, Mashava fled,” said Asst Insp Chananda.
Mashava’s uncle, Philani Mabhangura, then led a search team to look for Mashava, but they could not find him.
James’ body was found in the bush three days later, hanging from a tree branch by Fungai Mariyano who was looking for his lost goat.
In a separate incident, a Bangwe Primary School teacher committed suicide last week in uncertain circumstances.
Asst Insp Chananda said Thomas Sithole of Nedanhe Village under Chief Mutema had a history of mental instability.
“Sithole was last seen when he went to Chipinge District Education Offices to clear a salary query which he had and he never returned home.
“The following day, Sithole’s family reported him missing,” said Asst Insp Chananda.
Sithole’s body was later found in the bush by Shepherd Mlambo who then made a police report.
Online Reporter