Witnesses take stand against cattle rustler

Trish Mukwazo, Trishmukwazo515@gmail.com

THE trial of Bhekilizwe Nyathi (43) on charges of stealing and slaughtering five cattle worth US$2 250 has started with the State relying on the testimony of two key witnesses.

Nyathi appeared before Bulawayo magistrate, Ms Sibonginkosi Mnkandla, who remanded him in custody to December 24.

Nyathi was apprehended as part of a joint operation by the police, local businesses, residents, and members of the Neighbourhood Watch Committee. 

Despite his arrest, his two accomplices managed to escape and are still being pursued by police. 

Mr Zenzo Luphahla, the owner of the stolen cattle, testified that he realised his livestock was missing and later discovered that the stolen cattle had been slaughtered. 

He consequently went to the police station, where he positively identified the carcasses as belonging to his herd.

A witness, Mr Shepherd Ncube, recounted how he helped apprehend Nyathi after spotting him transporting the carcasses in a blue Mazda pick-up truck.

“I saw the vehicle and suspected foul play. I alerted other residents, and when we tried to stop him, Nyathi sped off. I clung to the canopy, shouting and screaming for help, but he attacked me with an axe,” Mr Ncube told the court.

Despite being injured, Mr Ncube held on as Nyathi drove for more than 20km at high speed. The chase ended when the vehicle developed a puncture in Nkulumane suburb, leading to Nyathi’s arrest.

Prosecutor, Ms Nomthandazo Mafu, told the court that on August 25 and 26, Nyathi and his accomplices allegedly stole five cattle from Criterion Farm in Umguza District.

“They drove the cattle into the bush, slaughtered them, and loaded the carcasses into a blue Mazda pick-up truck,” said Ms Mafu.

“Nyathi’s actions raised suspicion when Mr Ncube spotted the vehicle on Green Vale Road. When confronted, Nyathi allegedly attacked Mr Ncube with an axe and attempted to flee.

“Mr Ncube sustained serious injuries during the ordeal but managed to assist in Nyathi’s capture,” said Ms Mafu.