Bar Lady Struck With Machete Over Closing Time, Owner Allegedly Retaliates
CHIREDZI – A bar lady was struck on the head with a machete after attempting to close a bar early, prompting a retaliatory assault by the bar owner the following day.
The violent incidents, which occurred at Tazvitya Business Centre under Chief Nyajena in Masvingo, have led to attempted murder charges against three individuals.
The attack happened around 9pm last Tuesday when Farai Gwauya (25) and Prosper Marufu (26), both from Chivi, were drinking at the bar.
After purchasing two quarts of Black Label and snooker tokens, the pair allegedly became aggressive when the bar lady, whose name is not disclosed in court papers, informed them the bar was closing.
One of the men reportedly drew a machete and struck her once on the head.
She sustained serious injuries and the suspects fled the scene.
The following day, bar owner Cephas Charamba (40) of Chinyange Village allegedly confronted Gwauya at Musvovi Business Centre.
After a heated exchange, Charamba is said to have struck Gwauya once on the head with a log, reportedly as revenge for the attack on his employee.
Gwauya sustained injuries.
All three — Gwauya, Marufu, and Charamba have been remanded in custody and are facing attempted murder charges.
The cases are being heard before Chiredzi Regional Magistrate Judith Zuyu, with Rutendo Ndibwo prosecuting.
Authorities have raised concern over the rise in machete-related violence and the growing trend of vigilante retaliation in rural business centres.
Communities are being urged to resolve disputes through lawful channels and avoid taking justice into their own hands.
-The Mirror
