Man Killed After Asking For Biscuits In Chikombedzi
A seemingly trivial dispute over biscuits turned deadly in Chikombedzi after a 38-year-old man allegedly died from injuries sustained when he was attacked by a fellow villager.
Humulani Shadreck Chandale died on August 3 at Masvingo Provincial Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment following the alleged assault.
According to a police statement, Chandale and the accused, Eliot Manhlalele, 45, of Zaveni Village under Chief Chilonga, had been drinking beer together on July 30.
The two reportedly began walking home at around 11pm when Chandale allegedly asked Manhlalele to share biscuits he was carrying.
Manhlalele allegedly refused, triggering an argument after Chandale reportedly said the biscuits should be shared because he had earlier bought him beer.
The disagreement allegedly escalated into a fight, with Manhlalele accused of picking up a stone and striking Chandale several times in the face.
Chandale reportedly collapsed after sustaining injuries and was left at the scene while Manhlalele allegedly proceeded home.
Police said Manhlalele later informed Jatiele Mapimele, 58, about what had happened. Mapimele then transported Chandale by scotch cart to Chilonga Clinic.
He was subsequently referred to Chiredzi District Hospital and later transferred to Masvingo Provincial Hospital because of the severity of his injuries.
Police were notified on August 2, resulting in Manhlalele’s arrest on an assault charge.
Chandale, however, died at around 9am the following day while admitted at Masvingo Provincial Hospital.
Following his death, the charge against Manhlalele was upgraded from assault to murder.
Police urged members of the public to avoid violence when resolving disagreements.
“We urge members of the public to resolve disputes peacefully and avoid resorting to violence, as minor disagreements can easily lead to the loss of life,” police said.
