Gweru – A 47-year-old woman from Lower Gweru, Midlands Province, is currently battling for her life in hospital after a brutal assault at the hands of her husband, following his discovery of her alleged infidelity. The incident has brought into sharp focus the issue of domestic disputes and the need for peaceful resolution in Zimbabwean communities.
The unfortunate events unfolded on August 10th, at approximately 1640 hours, in Sabhuku Mawudo’s village, which falls under Chief Bunina’s jurisdiction in Lower Gweru.
According to reports, Getrude Maphosa, also 47, informed her husband, Themba Ncube, that she was heading to her aunt’s residence, located within the same vicinity. Little did Ncube know, this seemingly innocent visit would lead to a shocking revelation.
Approximately twenty minutes after his wife’s departure, Ncube proceeded to the grazing lands to round up his cattle. It was there, amidst the seemingly tranquil bushveld, that he stumbled upon a scene that would forever alter the course of their lives.
Ncube allegedly discovered his wife in a compromising position, engaging in an intimate act with an unidentified man. The unexpected encounter sent Maphosa fleeing back to their home, leaving her alleged lover to vanish into the surrounding bush.
Consumed by a mixture of disbelief and anger, Ncube followed his wife back to their homestead, where he confronted her about the alleged affair.
Sources indicate that Maphosa vehemently denied the accusations, insisting that her husband had not witnessed what he claimed. However, her denials did little to quell Ncube’s mounting rage.
The situation rapidly deteriorated, culminating in a savage assault. Ncube, overcome by fury, allegedly unleashed a barrage of attacks on his wife, employing a combination of fists, slaps, boots, a switch (shamhu), and even a metal object. The relentless beating left Maphosa with serious injuries all over her body.
Midlands Provincial Police Spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, confirmed the incident and the subsequent arrest of Themba Ncube. “The case was reported to the police, and Themba Ncube was arrested for assaulting his wife. He is expected to appear in court soon,” Insp Mahoko stated.
Inspector Mahoko further added, “Meanwhile, Getrude Maphosa is admitted at Gweru Provincial Hospital, where her condition is critical.”
The severity of her injuries underscores the brutality of the assault and the potential long-term consequences for the victim.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has consistently urged members of the public to seek peaceful and constructive means of resolving disputes, rather than resorting to physical altercations.
In a statement released following the incident, the ZRP reiterated this message, emphasising the availability of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms within communities. These include seeking mediation from trusted figures such as police officers, village heads (Sabhuku), traditional chiefs, pastors, and other respected community leaders.
The police also highlighted the importance of open communication and seeking professional counselling when facing marital or relationship challenges. They stressed that resorting to physical confrontation not only constitutes a criminal offence but also inflicts lasting physical and emotional scars on all parties involved.
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