The ManicaPost
The knife (circled) used in murdering Wilbert Mautse left stuck on his cheek
Liberty Dube : Post Correspondent
A N’ANGA from Nyanga last Saturday ran amok and savagely axed and knifed his colleague to death after being accused of using witchcraft. Wonder Ndowa (59) of Sanyabako Village in Chief Saunyama’s area was arrested soon after committing the heinous act.
He allegedly axed Wilbert Mautse (59) of the same village several times on the head and right hand, before cutting off his right fore-finger.
Mautse allegedly visited Ndowa on June 23 and handed him a letter demanding several properties as compensation for bewitching him.
He threatened to deal with him if he failed to give him his dues.
The axe-wielding Mautse returned the following day demanding his dues. He stabbed Ndowa on his ribs.
His second attempt to stab him was met with resistance.
“The infuriated Ndowa retaliated and tossed him down. He grabbed Mautse’s axe.
Ndowa used Mautse’s axe to hack him three times on the head, twice on his right hand before cutting off his right fore-finger.
“He took a knife and stabbed him on his right cheek. He bled profusely and died on the spot,” said deputy Manicaland provincial police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Luxson Chananda.
Ndowa rushed to Ruziwa Business Centre and told David Gwezere about the incident who reported the matter to the police. Ndowa was arrested.
Asst Insp Chananda confirmed the grisly murder, which sent tongues wagging in Nyanga District.
“Ndowa is now in our custody and is assisting us with investigations. We are appealing to members of the public to solve disputes amicably by seeking advice from church and village elders or relatives.
“We also have a public relations department which is open to everyone where we can proffer solutions and settle differences professionally and amicably.
“Emotions and overreacting can cause warring parties to regret and often lead to unnecessary loss of lives. We will not hesitate to arrest people who put the law in their hands,” said Asst Insp Chananda.
Acting Chief Saunyama in an interview said the incident was shocking and urged people to solve disputes maturely and always seek assistance at the traditional courts.
“Our courts are also there to solve domestic and marital disputes amicably. We also offer professional counselling to people. This is a great concern to traditional leaders in Nyanga and we urge people to desist from resorting to violence to settle disputes,” he said.
