MARTIN MAWAYA
MBERENGWA–A 17-year-old girl from Mberengwa is battling for life in hospital after she was brutally stabbed several times on the abdomen, leaving her intestines protruding, following a violent dispute with her ex-boyfriend over a failed reconciliation attempt.
Police have confirmed that the attempted murder incident occurred at Village 3 under Chief Bvute in Mberengwa on Sunday around 5:30 PM.
The Midlands provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, said the victim (name withheld) had previously been cohabiting with the suspect, Learnmore Magonza, in Zvishavane before the relationship turned sour.
“It is alleged that the two were once lovers and stayed together in Zvishavane. The relationship later collapsed, prompting the girl to return to her parents’ home,” said Insp Mahoko.
According to police reports, Magonza later visited Mbedzi at her parents’ home in an effort to rekindle the relationship.
However, when Mbedzi rejected his proposal, a heated misunderstanding ensued.
In a fit of rage, the suspect allegedly drew an okapi knife and stabbed her multiple times in the abdomen.
The vicious attack left the girl’s intestines protruding through a deep abdominal wound.
After committing the crime, the suspect reportedly fled the scene and has not yet been apprehended.
Insp Mahoko confirmed that the victim was rushed to Mberengwa District Hospital, where she received emergency treatment before being transferred to United Bulawayo Hospitals due to the severity of her injuries.
“Her condition is reported to be serious,” added Inspector Mahoko. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Mberengwa is investigating the matter, and a manhunt has been launched for the suspect.”
He further urged members of the public to resolve disputes amicably and desist from resorting to violence.
“We appeal to people to find peaceful ways of resolving their differences. Violence is never a solution. It is also a criminal offence to engage in sexual relationships with minors under the age of 18,” he said.
Police have appealed to anyone with information on Magonza’s whereabouts to report to the nearest police station.
