Source: Tsholotsho man on the run after machete, petrol attack on in-laws – herald
Peter Matika, peter.matika@chronicle.co.zw
POLICE have launched a manhunt for a Tsholotsho man accused of carrying out a violent domestic attack that reportedly escalated into a near-fatal fire, leaving several family members seriously injured.
The suspect, Ephraim Moyo of Tsholotsho, is wanted in connection with attempted murder and malicious damage to property following an incident linked to a marital dispute with his wife, Anita Ndlovu.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the incident occurred on the night of May 15 at the couple’s homestead in Tsholotsho.
Commissioner Nyathi said a misunderstanding arose between the couple, prompting Anita to flee their home and seek refuge at her father’s homestead.
“The suspect’s wife ran away from their homestead following a domestic dispute and sought shelter at her father’s residence,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
What began as a domestic dispute is alleged to have escalated dramatically the following day.
Commissioner Nyathi said Moyo allegedly followed his wife to her family’s homestead armed with a machete and carrying a five-litre container filled with petrol.
Upon arrival, he allegedly demanded the return of his dowry, accusing Anita of infidelity.
The situation quickly turned threatening, with Moyo allegedly issuing death threats against Anita’s mother, Lucy Ndlovu, and the woman’s infant child.
Fearing for their safety, Lucy reportedly grabbed her daughter’s infant and rushed into one of the houses in an attempt to protect the child.
However, the danger persisted.
Commissioner Nyathi said Moyo allegedly pursued them and attempted to force entry into the house by hacking at the door with an axe-like weapon, but failed to gain entry.
“In a violent escalation, the suspect allegedly broke a window, poured petrol into the house and set it on fire,” he said.
As the house was engulfed in flames, panic gripped the family. Lucy and the infant reportedly managed to escape from the burning building.
However, the ordeal did not end there.
Commissioner Nyathi said the two were allegedly attacked with a machete as they tried to flee, while Anita also escaped from the burning house with injuries sustained during the attack.
The victims survived the incident and were rushed to hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.
Police have since intensified efforts to locate and arrest Moyo, and have appealed to members of the public for any information that may assist in his capture.
Commissioner Nyathi strongly condemned the incident and urged couples facing disputes to seek peaceful solutions rather than resorting to violence.
“Couples should seek assistance from family members, community leaders, churches, counsellors and other relevant structures whenever disputes arise instead of resorting to violence,” he said.
He added that police are increasingly concerned about the use of dangerous weapons in domestic and criminal disputes.
Commissioner Nyathi said the Zimbabwe Republic Police has stepped up a nationwide campaign against the possession and use of such weapons as part of efforts to protect communities.
“The campaign seeks to curb the unnecessary carrying and use of dangerous weapons, which continue to fuel violent crimes in communities,” he said.
The Tsholotsho incident has once again highlighted the serious consequences of unresolved domestic disputes and the growing impact of violence on families and communities.
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