By A Correspondent

A disagreement over a mbanje (marijuana) twist has led to the tragic death of a man from Luveve suburb in Bulawayo.

Takunda Mandizwidza, 24, was recently found guilty of culpable homicide after an argument with his friend escalated into violence.

Mandizwidza was sentenced by Bulawayo High Court Judge Justice Naison Chivayo, who considered that the accused was a first-time offender.

The court took into account that Mandizwidza had pleaded guilty and that his family had paid compensation in the form of five beasts to the victim’s family.

In his ruling, Justice Chivayo said, “The accused is a first offender who pleaded guilty to the charge of culpable homicide and his family paid five beasts to compensate the bereaved family. However, it is important to note that no amount can compensate for the loss of life.”

The judge also made it clear that the court wanted to send a strong message regarding drug abuse.

“A number of campaigns have been made to end drug abuse, but it seems that a few individuals take heed of such warnings. We are left with no choice but to remove you from the community for a lengthy period,” he said.

Mandizwidza was sentenced to five years in prison, with two years suspended for good behavior, meaning he will serve an effective three years in jail. The judge also imposed a suspended sentence, which Mandizwidza must be mindful of as a reminder of the seriousness of his actions. “The court will also give you a suspended sentence which will hover around your head to remind you that you are an offender.

This will be a way to send a message to your friends so that they desist from such behaviour,” Justice Chivayo added.

The incident occurred on November 21, 2023, at around 8 pm, when the victim arrived at Dellen Mugayi’s home in Luveve, where Mandizwidza was with a group of friends smoking mbanje.

The victim joined the group and asked Mandizwidza for a smoke, but Mandizwidza declined, explaining that the victim had initially refused to join them.

This led to a confrontation, with the victim becoming angry and starting a fight with Mandizwidza. During the altercation, the victim picked up an object and stabbed Mandizwidza in the chest.

In retaliation, Mandizwidza grabbed a brick and struck the victim once on the left side of his forehead. The victim collapsed and was rushed to the hospital, but he tragically died the next day from his head injuries.

Mandizwidza was arrested, and the matter was reported to the police. This case highlights the dangerous consequences of disputes fueled by drug use and violence.