Patrick Chitumba [email protected]
A DISPUTE over snooker tokens claimed the life of a 21-year-old man in Gokwe North after two men allegedly assaulted him with wooden sticks before fatally stabbing him.
Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said the incident occurred at Vumba Business Centre on Sunday evening.
The deceased, Shuwa Ndlovu of Ganyani Village under Chief Simuchembo, was allegedly playing snooker with the two suspects, Isheunesu Ganyani (20) and Tinashe Ganyani (19), when a misunderstanding arose over the purchase of snooker tokens.
“Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms a case of murder where a 21-year-old man died after he was stabbed with a knife. The incident occurred at Vumba Business Centre, Gokwe North, on 1 November 2026 at around 9.30PM,” he said.
Insp Mahoko said the two suspects allegedly took turns assaulting Ndlovu with wooden sticks before stabbing him in the chest and stomach.
“Ndlovu fell down and died on the spot. The suspects have since been arrested and are assisting police with investigations,” he said.
Insp Mahoko urged members of the public to resolve disputes peacefully instead of resorting to violence.
“We have once again lost a life in circumstances where dialogue should have been the best route in finding a solution. We once again implore on the public to desist from violent behaviour as it risks loss of life,” he said.
Man dies after drinking illicit brew
In a separate incident, a 55-year-old Mberengwa man died after allegedly consuming excessive amounts of illicit cane spirit at Vutika Business Centre.
The deceased, Jenifani Simba, reportedly developed chest pains on 1 November after consuming the illicit brew.
Insp Mahoko said Simba told his brother, Tinotemba Simba of Village Simba under Chief Maziofa, that he was experiencing chest pains.
His condition reportedly deteriorated in the early hours of 2 November, and he died at around 5am.
Insp Mahoko urged members of the public to desist from drug and substance abuse, warning against the dangers of consuming illicit substances.
“Once again, we are calling upon members of the public to desist from drug and substance abuse,” he said.
