Zvishavane – Innocent Nyamandi, a 51-year-old man from Makwasha village in Zvishavane, has been sentenced to nine years in prison after being found guilty of the attempted murder of his wife, Sibongile Chikozho. The horrific incident occurred in their home, leaving Ms. Chikozho with severe burns and their 11-month-old baby narrowly escaping harm.
The Zvishavane regional magistrate, Mr. Tawenga Sangster, presided over the case, delivering a verdict that reflects the gravity of the crime. While the sentence was set at nine years, Nyamandi will effectively serve seven years behind bars. The remaining two years were suspended on the condition that he does not commit a similar offence within the next five years.
The details of the case, as presented by prosecutor Ms. Melissa Muriva Makombe, paint a disturbing picture of domestic discord escalating into extreme violence. According to Ms. Makombe, the events unfolded on the 23rd of November. At approximately 10pm, Nyamandi telephoned his wife, informing her of his impending arrival from Mberengwa, where he had been visiting. He expressed his intention to see her and their children.
Unbeknownst to Nyamandi, Ms. Chikozho was not at their home that night. She informed her husband that she was spending the night at a friend’s residence. The following morning, at around 8am, Nyamandi went to Ms. Chikozho’s shop, where he confronted her about her whereabouts the previous night.
Ms. Makombe detailed the ensuing argument, stating, “He accused the complainant of infidelity, which led to a misunderstanding. The accused then poured petrol on the complainant and set her alight with a cigarette lighter before fleeing the scene, leaving her engulfed in flames.” Tragically, the couple’s 11-month-old baby was strapped to Ms. Chikozho’s back at the time of the attack.
The court heard that Ms. Chikozho sustained extensive and life-threatening burns as a result of the assault. She suffered severe burns to her head, back, chest, and both arms. Immediate medical attention was crucial, and she was swiftly transported to a local hospital where she received treatment for her injuries.
Following the incident, Nyamandi was apprehended by law enforcement officials and subsequently charged with attempted murder. The couple have two children together. The motive behind the brutal attack appears to stem from accusations of infidelity levelled by Nyamandi against his wife. The incident highlights the devastating consequences of domestic disputes and the urgent need for interventions to prevent such acts of violence.
The sentencing of Innocent Nyamandi brings a measure of justice to Sibongile Chikozho, but the physical and emotional scars of this horrific ordeal will undoubtedly endure.
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