A 19-year-old man, Liberty Sibanda, has been arrested by Police and charged after a violent stabbing incident at an all-night prayer gathering in Mashavele Village, Chief Gezani, which resulted in the deaths of two worshippers and injuries to two others. The incident occurred on the night of August 3 as members of the community gathered to honor a deceased relative.
According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), Sibanda faces two counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder following the attack. The case is currently before the courts, with Sibanda having appeared in the Masvingo Magistrates’ Court and remanded in custody until August 21, pending further proceedings.
Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri, spokesperson for the ZRP Criminal Investigations Department (CID), provided details of the attack. She explained that the victims were gathered around a fireplace to keep warm when Liberty Sibanda suddenly emerged from his room and attacked one of the worshippers with a sharp object. The initial victim was stabbed once in the neck under circumstances that remain unclear as investigations continue.
As the attack unfolded, two other worshippers attempted to intervene and stop the assault. However, both were stabbed in the back and forced to retreat. These two survivors received immediate medical attention and are currently recovering after treatment at local health facilities. Tragically, another victim who sustained injuries in the attack later succumbed to her wounds in hospital, bringing the death toll to two.
Following the stabbing, Liberty Sibanda was quickly apprehended by local residents and handed over to police. He is now awaiting trial as authorities continue to investigate the motive and circumstances surrounding this shocking act of violence.
The police have urged community members and the public at large to avoid resorting to violence and to instead pursue peaceful and amicable means of resolving disputes. “We call upon the public to refrain from the use of violence and find amicable ways to resolve their differences,” Detective Inspector Muteweri said.
This incident is the second violent attack reported in the Chikombedzi area within a short span of time, raising concerns about escalating insecurity in the region.
19-Year-Old Arrested by Police for Deadly Stabbing at Prayer Gathering in Mashavele Village
Just the previous week, a funeral gathering in Mukuwo Village turned chaotic when an unidentified man armed with a knife fatally stabbed a mourner, 46-year-old Sithokozile Siwawa, and injured three others. The attacker fled the scene and remains at large, prompting a police manhunt.
The victims of that attack were rushed to medical facilities, with two recovering at Chikombedzi Mission Hospital and one receiving treatment at Masvingo General Hospital. Law enforcement agencies are appealing to the public for any information that may assist in the identification and arrest of the fugitive.
The recent surge in violent incidents has caused alarm among residents of Chikombedzi and surrounding villages, casting a shadow over what should be peaceful communal gatherings such as funerals and prayer meetings. These events, traditionally times for reflection and unity, have instead become scenes of tragic violence.
Community leaders and local authorities have condemned these attacks, emphasizing the importance of harmony and the rule of law. They have called for increased vigilance, stronger community policing, and dialogue aimed at addressing underlying social tensions that may be contributing to these outbreaks of violence.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police have reassured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to maintain law and order in the region. Patrols have been intensified, and investigations into both stabbing incidents are ongoing.
Authorities continue to appeal for information from anyone who may have witnessed either attack or who has knowledge of the individuals involved. Community cooperation is considered crucial in ensuring that justice is served and that such tragic episodes do not recur.
Police spokesperson Detective Inspector Muteweri reiterated the call for non-violent conflict resolution and urged people to use established legal channels to settle disputes. She emphasized that violence only brings harm and suffering to families and communities and that the law will be enforced to deal firmly with offenders.
“We urge all members of the community to embrace peace and work together to prevent further incidents,” Muteweri said. “Let us unite to build safer neighborhoods where events like prayer gatherings and funerals can be held without fear.”
The tragic stabbing at the prayer gathering in Mashavele Village and the earlier attack at Mukuwo Village underscore the urgent need for enhanced security and social cohesion in parts of rural Zimbabwe. As investigations proceed and the suspect faces court, the community’s hope rests on the restoration of peace and the pursuit of justice.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police continue their commitment to protect citizens and maintain public safety, encouraging anyone with information on violent crimes to come forward and assist in ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.
Source- Bulawayo24
