Death at a funeral

Police have launched a manhunt for a Zaka man who allegedly fatally struck a man who was fighting with his father at a funeral, as he tried to restrain the two.

Maphios Mukumba (22) of Rwatikunda Village under Chief Bota allegedly struck John Mudhara, 27, of the same village with a log as he tried to stop him from fighting his father, Tinarwo Chisomo, 76 on Sunday.

Masvingo police spokesperson Insp Charity Mazula has confirmed the incident saying Mudhara died from the injuries he sustained at his homestead on Tuesday.

"We confirm receiving a report to that effect. The suspect fled the scene after committing the offence. Police have since launched a manhunt and he will be charged with murder once he is apprehended," said Insp Mazula.

Mudhara allegedly had an altercation with his father when he pestered him to explain why his brother's body was taking very long to be transported from Harare to Masvingo for burial, at the funeral wake on Sunday.

The two allegedly ended up fighting and a relative called Mukumba to intervene and save the elderly Chisomo who was reportedly on the receiving end of heavy blows from Mudhara.

Mudhara allegedly would not stop beating his father until Mukumba grabbed a log and hit him on the head and abdomen.

Mudhara was carried by villagers from the funeral wake to his homestead after he collapsed following the assault.

Mukumba, sensing danger fled from the scene and has not been heard from since.

Family members fear he might have gone to the bush and committed suicide although a search for his body has not yielded anything.