9 Zimbabweans charged with murder of fellow citizen in Botswana

Nine Zimbabwean nationals have been formally charged with murder and illegal entry into Botswana following the brutal killing of fellow Zimbabwean Tavonanashe Mariga. The victim was allegedly assaulted in a horrific manner, including being stomped on the testicles, leading to his death.

The accused, aged between 23 and 38, are Crispen Gasura (33), Desmond Dube (23), Takesure Fraser (38), Abbisai Gasura (29), Justice Mafukidze (25), Clayton Chiwa (35), Spencer Gasura (35), Calvin Mafukidze (27), and Alouis Gasura (23). All nine are male.

The shocking incident took place at Matebele Farms on January 5, 2025, after the group accused Mariga of stealing P1,500. The nine men allegedly ganged up on Mariga, brutally assaulting him with sticks and stomping on his testicles until he lost consciousness. The entire attack was reportedly filmed. Mariga was subsequently tied up before being transported to the hospital, where he was certified dead upon arrival.

The accused were arraigned before the Broadhurst Magistrates' Court on Friday, facing charges of murder and illegal entry into Botswana. During the court proceedings, Prosecutor Mmoloki Selofera requested that the accused remain in custody, emphasizing the severity of the crime and the ongoing investigation.

"The accused persons shouldn't be granted bail as this is a relatively new matter. And we are still waiting for the post-mortem results, forensic affidavit, and the photo album," Selofera told the court.

The accused, who are farm workers at Matebele Farms, did not contest the state's request, and Magistrate Goratile Moremi-Ramakoloi agreed to the prosecution's plea.

"The nine accused persons are further remanded in custody until the next mention date on February 13, 2025," Magistrate Moremi-Ramakoloi ordered.

The case continues, and further investigation into the incident is ongoing.