Snooker Game Turns Ugly as Bet Dispute Ends in Brutal Assault
HARARE — A resident of Highfield suburb has been granted a protection order by the Harare Civil Court after he was assaulted by two men who refused to honour a snooker bet following their loss at a local entertainment venue.
The altercation took place in Machipisa, where locals regularly gather for social games and informal betting.
The complainant, Mr Antony Katamho, told the court that the incident occurred after he won the final round of the game and demanded his payout.
However, the two accused individuals, Mr Kudakwashe Ramowa and Mr Tatenda Moyo, refused to acknowledge the wager and accused him of using unfair tactics.
The verbal dispute quickly escalated into a violent confrontation.
“The fight started after I asked for my winnings. They accused me of cheating and began shouting. Then both of them started hitting me with pool cues and fists,” Mr Katamho testified.
He sustained injuries to his face and body before bar patrons and staff intervened.
Mr Katamho was taken to a nearby clinic for medical attention, while the two men fled the scene.
They were later arrested by police following a formal complaint lodged by the complainant.
In court, both accused admitted to the assault and pleaded for leniency. “We were drunk, angry, and ashamed of losing. We lost control,” Mr Ramowa said, visibly remorseful.
Mr Moyo echoed the sentiment, stating, “We accept full responsibility. We are asking for help, not just punishment. We want to change.”
Presiding magistrate Ms Johanna Mukwesha granted the protection order in favour of Mr Katamho.
She advised the duo to avoid gambling under the influence of alcohol, stressing that poor emotional control can lead to destructive choices.
-Herald
