A 37-year-old man from Munukwa village in Gokwe now faces murder charges following the fatal assault of a chief’s messenger, police officials have confirmed. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting tensions that can arise in enforcing traditional authority.
According to Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, the victim, Moses Moyo, was performing his duties as a chief’s messenger when the tragic confrontation occurred on June 24. Moyo had been tasked with delivering summons to a villager to appear before a traditional court presided over by Headman Ndlalambi, a key local authority in the area.
Inspector Mahoko detailed the circumstances surrounding the incident, stating that around 11:30 a.m. that day, Chief’s Messenger approached the suspect, identified as Brighton Maketo, at his homestead in Munukwa village, which falls under the jurisdiction of Chief Nemangwe. The summons served was intended to compel Maketo to attend the court session where a dispute or matter requiring his presence was to be addressed.
What began as a routine delivery quickly escalated into a heated exchange between Moyo and Maketo. Reports indicate that a misunderstanding or disagreement sparked the confrontation, which rapidly turned violent. According to eyewitness accounts and police reports, Maketo grabbed a stool and an axe and assaulted Moyo, striking him on the head and leg.The injuries sustained by Moyo were severe, and despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his wounds at the scene, passing away at Maketo’s homestead.
Chief’s Messenger Murdered by Local Man
The police acted swiftly following the incident, arresting Maketo soon after the attack. Inspector Mahoko confirmed that Maketo is currently in custody and is expected to appear in court shortly to answer to charges of murder.
This unfortunate episode underscores the potential dangers faced by those who serve in traditional roles, especially messengers who act as the communication link between traditional authorities and community members. Chief’s messengers play an important role in maintaining order and ensuring compliance with customary laws and decisions. However, their duties sometimes place them in risky situations, particularly when delivering unwelcome news or summons.
Inspector Mahoko used the opportunity to call on the public to respect the roles of law enforcement agencies and traditional leaders. He emphasized that the enforcement of the law—whether statutory or customary—is crucial for maintaining peace, harmony, and justice within communities.
“Incidents like these disrupt social order and undermine the authority of both traditional and formal governance structures,” said Inspector Mahoko. “We urge everyone to allow these processes to function without resorting to violence.”
Chief Nemangwe, the traditional leader overseeing Munukwa village, also expressed his sadness and condemnation of the violent act. In a statement, the chief described the killing as “a grave violation of our customs and laws,” adding that the community will cooperate fully with law enforcement to ensure justice is served.
Local residents have expressed shock and sadness over the event, describing Moses Moyo as a dedicated and respectful messenger who carried out his duties with integrity. Many have called for calm and for the community to allow the legal process to take its course.
The case highlights the challenges that can emerge in rural areas where traditional governance remains deeply embedded in social life. It also brings attention to the need for greater education on conflict resolution and respect for legal procedures, whether in customary courts or formal judicial systems.
As Maketo awaits his court appearance, authorities continue their investigation to gather all relevant evidence and testimonies. The community remains hopeful that justice will be achieved, restoring confidence in both traditional and formal systems of law and order.
The police reiterate their appeal for the public to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and to respect the authority of both traditional leaders and law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and stability in the region.
This tragic incident serves as a solemn reminder of the risks faced by those who serve in official capacities within communities and the vital importance of upholding the rule of law in all spheres of society.
Source- Bulawayo24
