Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Online Reporter
MADLAMBUDZI Business Centre in Bulilima District, Matabeleland South province has come to a standstill today as all the shopping operations have been put on hold to honour the lives of five victims who were brutally murdered by a suspected mentally challenged man.
A sombre atmosphere gripped the area as a funeral service was held at Madlambudzi Hall which was full to the brim.
People from all walks of life across the country came to witness a touching ceremony to bid farewell to Elliot Khupe (101), Butho Tshuma (97), Constance Sibanda (66), Tiffan Surprise Ndlovu (six) and Catra Matsika (72).
Phamani Sibanda (43) killed five people in cold blood before two people were injured. One of the victims was hospitalised and discharged while Gogo Mpopoma Ngwenya (90) whose husband is among the deceased failed to attend the service as she is still hospitalised at Plumtree District Hospital.
The area is still reeling from the shock of the brutal killings, with an eerie atmosphere hanging over the dusty road and homesteads.
Chief mourner at the funeral service Minister of Industry and Commerce Nqobizitha Ndlovu who was standing in for Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Albert Nguluvhe urged the Madlambudzi community not to be divided by the incident.
Also present was Zanu PF politburo member Cde Richard Ndlovu, Government officials, Zanu PF Bulilima DCC leadership and villagers.
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