RUTENDO CHIRUME
CHIVI-The police is investigating a murder case involving a 23-year-old man who died after allegedly being struck by a cement brick following a dispute at a local beerhall.
The deceased, Walter Lisimati (23) of Muzvidziwa Village under Chief Nemauzhe in Chivi was reportedly killed by Tinashe Ndava (21) of Mavhengere Village, also under Chief Nemauzhe.
Masvingo Provincial police spokesperson Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident and urged communities to report criminal activities without delay, saying timely reporting plays a crucial role in preserving evidence, apprehending suspects and ensuring justice for victims and their families.
“Members of the public are encouraged to report crimes promptly to assist police investigations and facilitate the swift arrest of suspects,” he said.
The circumstances are that on June 06 at around 9pm at Chimina Bar at Zivuku Business Centre, where Lisimati was drinking beer, Ndava approached the deceased and poured beer on his face, resulting in an argument between the two men.
During the altercation, Lisimati allegedly slapped Ndava before the matter was resolved and the pair went their separate ways.
However, at around 11pm, Lisimati was walking home in the company of Vengai Muwoka when the suspect allegedly approached from behind carrying a quarter cement brick and struck him once on the head.
The blow reportedly caused Lisimati to fall to the ground where he was assisted off the road and helped to walk home until they reached Manake Truckstop, where he was left asleep while efforts were made to alert his relatives.
When family members arrived they found that Lisimati was unable to speak and rushed him to a nearby clinic where he received initial treatment before being transferred to Chivi District Hospital on June 8, where he succumbed to the injuries.
The matter was formally reported to the police on June 9. Police say the suspect allegedly fled the area after the incident and his whereabouts remain unknown.
