Tout killed over biscuits

Walter Mswazie Masvingo Correspondent
A CHIREDZI tout who caused the death of his friend while wrestling over a packet of biscuits, has been sentenced to three years. Takemore Mhende of Triangle, who was aged 25 when he committed the crime two years ago, was found guilty of culpable homicide by the High Court on circuit in Masvingo.

Justice Francis Bere, sitting with assessors Elphas Gweru and Samuel Mutomba, sentenced Mhende to three years in prison for causing the death of his friend. He will however, serve an effective two years in prison after one year was suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour.

Prosecutors say on September 11, 2012 at around 6PM, Mhende was carrying a packet of biscuits when his colleague Tapiwa Chalie of Kufakunesu village under Chief Mukanganwi in Bikita, snatched the packet from him and ran away.

Mhende chased after Kufakunesu, 24, and when he got hold of him, the two started wrestling.
“Mhende hit Kufakunesu’s head on the ground while pinning him between his legs and he collapsed and became unconscious,” said Elson Chavarika prosecuting.

He said this happened in the presence of Detective Sergeant Kumire who then rushed Kufakunesu to clinic in a police vehicle but was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Mhende was immediately arrested.
The two were touts at Dully’s Terminus in Triangle. In passing the sentence Justice Bere said he considered that Mhende did not kill his colleague deliberately.