By Virginia Njovo
A man from Village 3, Chibakwe area in Gutu is on the run after allegedly murdering his neighbour accusing him of bewitching him and causing misfortunes in his life.
The accused, Richard Bharinoti disappeared after murdering his neighbour Liberty Madhona on October 25, 2024 .
Masvingo Provincial Spokesperson, Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident encouraging those who may have information on the accused’s whereabouts.
“I can confirm the incident where a man from Gutu allegedly killed his neighbour. I encourage members of the public who may have information on the whereabouts of the accused to inform the police.
“We also encourage people to avoid using violence to solve issues. When people are having misunderstandings it is advisable to seek help from third parties than resorting to violence,” said Inspector Dhewa.
Circumstances are that, on October 25, Bharinoti got drunk and went to Madonha’s homestead and accused him of causing misfortunes in his life.
The two got into a heated argument and Bharinoti went on to hit Madhona on the stomach with the spikey back of his axe and he fell on the veranda where bled and died on the spot.
Seeing their father soaked in blood, the deceased’s children called their other neighbours for help who latter reported to the police.
The accused ran away from the scene as soon as he realized that he had killed his neighbour.
Cases of murder involving allegations of witchcraft are on the rise with another case having been reported earlier this month where a Renco man teamed up with his two daughters and killed both his parents.
He accused them of possessing goblins which were causing misfortunes in the family.
Circumstances are that the man and his three children teamed up and went to confront his now deceased parents at their homestead. They allegedly accused the couple of possessing goblins which were causing misfortune in the family.
In a separate incident in Chief Nyajena near Fusira Primary School, a man committed suicide after being accused by his children of possessing goblins.
