A tragic incident unfolded in Bindura on February 16, as a dispute over a mere US$1 turned deadly, resulting in the death of a 34-year-old man. Cephas Munyowani, a resident of Masere village, was fatally stabbed in the stomach by 23-year-old Aleck Joseph Bembenene during the confrontation.
According to reports, Munyowani and his companion, Gilbert Nzonzera, encountered Bembenene at a local grinding mill, where he was purchasing chicken feed. Bembenene then requested their assistance in carrying the feed to his homestead, promising them US$1 and opaque beer as compensation. Agreeing to the arrangement, Munyowani and Nzonzera transported the chicken feed and were duly paid.
“At around 9pm, the pair went to Sonata Muchenje’s homestead where they were digging a well.
“Bembenene followed them and found the pair in the company of Farai Kaseza and Allen Purazi of Muchenje Village, Bindura.
“The accused started demanding his US$1 back from Munyowani, who refused, insisting that he had fulfilled his duty.
“Bembenene confronted Munyowani and they started to wrestle. He stabbed Munyowani once in the stomach with a kitchen knife and ran away,” said Ass-Insp Nyandoro.
Munyowani gave chase while crying for help, but he collapsed with his intestines protruding.
Nzonzera tried to render first aid and rushed him to Shamva Hospital where he was admitted.
Bembenene was apprehended the following day at around 7pm by members of the public who handed him over to the Nyava Police Base.
Munyowani died two days later.
Asst Insp Nyandoro urged residents not to take the law into their own hands.
“Desist from taking the law into your own hands. Respect the sanctity of life and seek the services of the police, traditional leaders, professional counsellors or church leaders whenever you face challenges.”
