What began as an ordinary lovers’ visit in a quiet Matabeleland South village descended into violence when the discovery of several used condoms in a man’s bedroom set off a chain of accusations, rage, and a brutal assault that has landed two siblings in police custody.
Police say 22-year-old Sakhile Mpofu and her elder brother, 25-year-old Somandla Moyo, are accused of attacking Sakhile’s boyfriend, 32-year-old Never Mukuli, in what authorities describe as a “crime of passion” mixed with elements of family honour.
The incident unfolded on the evening of 25 July 2025 in Village 3, Mncwazini area, a rural community where family disputes are often resolved through dialogue — but this time, emotions overtook reason.According to court documents, the confrontation began at Somandla’s homestead, where the three had gathered to discuss the state of Sakhile and Mukuli’s relationship. Somandla reportedly expressed frustration that Mukuli had not taken formal steps to marry his younger sister despite their ongoing romantic involvement.
Witnesses say the discussion started relatively calmly, with the siblings pressing Mukuli for a commitment. In an apparent attempt to ease tensions, the trio agreed to move to Mukuli’s home to continue the talks privately.
Once there, Mukuli handed Somandla an undisclosed sum of money, described in court as “compensation,” though it remains unclear whether this was intended as a partial bride price or a peace offering to smooth over the dispute.
The fragile truce collapsed moments later when Sakhile entered her boyfriend’s bedroom. According to police, she was met with a sight that ignited her suspicions — several used condoms lying openly on the floor.
A police source familiar with the investigation said the discovery suggested to Sakhile that her partner had been sexually involved with others in her absence. “The sight of multiple used condoms suggested more than a single betrayal,” the source said. “Sakhile began to imagine what had transpired and lost control.”
Demanding an explanation, she confronted Mukuli, who reportedly failed to provide a convincing answer.
Used Condoms Discovery Sparks Violent Lovers’ Quarrel in Mncwazini
What began as a verbal confrontation escalated into physical violence. Witnesses allege that Sakhile slapped Mukuli repeatedly in the face as the argument grew louder and more heated.
Instead of defusing the situation, Somandla allegedly decided to join the fray. Armed with a log, he is said to have struck Mukuli several times on the face and back. Police reports indicate that the blows left Mukuli with visible facial injuries and severe back pain, injuries that were later documented in his medical report.
The altercation only ended when neighbours, alerted by the commotion, intervened. By then, Mukuli was bruised and shaken, and the siblings had left the scene.
Later that evening, Mukuli made his way to Figtree Police Station to lodge a formal complaint. Officers moved swiftly, arresting Sakhile and Somandla the following day.
The pair were charged with assault and brought before Plumtree magistrate Joshua Nembaware. During their initial court appearance, they were not asked to plead and were remanded in custody until 13 August 2025.
In Mncwazini, the case has stirred conversations about trust, jealousy, and the dangers of allowing disputes to turn violent. Some community members expressed sympathy for Sakhile, saying that infidelity can be emotionally devastating, while others criticised the siblings’ actions, arguing that violence is never a justified response.
A local elder, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the case highlighted the importance of handling relationship disputes through proper channels. “In our culture, when there is a misunderstanding between lovers, especially when marriage is being discussed, families sit down and talk. Violence brings shame to everyone involved,” the elder said.
If convicted of assault, Sakhile and Somandla could face prison sentences, fines, or both, depending on the severity of the injuries and the court’s assessment of their intent. Legal experts note that the involvement of a weapon — in this case, the log — could be treated as an aggravating factor during sentencing.
Meanwhile, Mukuli is said to be recovering from his injuries. Friends describe him as “deeply hurt” both physically and emotionally, but he has not made any public statements about the incident.
For many in the region, the case serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of acting in the heat of the moment. Police in Matabeleland South have urged residents to seek peaceful resolution of domestic disputes and to involve traditional leaders, counsellors, or mediators before resorting to violence.
As the legal process unfolds, the fate of the two siblings now lies in the hands of the courts — and the incident has left the community grappling with questions about love, betrayal, and the price of impulsive decisions.
Source- Bulawayo24
