Woman kills aunt in electricity usage row

A dispute over the use of electricity turned fatal when Nella Kundai (27) allegedly stabbed her aunt, Dorothy Matongo (41), three times in the chest with a knife. The incident occurred at their shared residence in Vengere suburb, Rusape.

According to sources, the disagreement arose over an electricity bill, with Kundai refusing to pay, citing financial constraints. Matongo reportedly sympathized with her niece and contributed US$5 to restore electricity for lighting purposes only, not for cooking. However, Kundai disregarded this instruction and used the electricity for cooking, sparking a heated argument that escalated into a physical altercation.

Matongo sustained serious injuries and was rushed to Mutare, but tragically passed away en route at Chipembere around 8 PM.

Sources revealed that Matongo's family had previously sought assistance from the police due to escalating tensions, but their concerns were disregarded. The police allegedly stated that they could only intervene after a crime had been committed.

Matongo's daughter, identified as Prime, blamed the police for their inaction, asserting that if they had responded promptly, her mother's life might have been saved. Prime herself sustained injuries during the altercation while trying to intervene.

Community elder Eunice Muhwihwa expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and urged the police to fulfill their duties effectively in preventing such senseless acts of violence.

Matongo's churchmate, Mai Muchena, also questioned the failure of the justice system to intervene and prevent the tragedy.

Kundai has been arrested and is facing murder charges. Matongo is survived by three daughters and one son.