Man dies after being slapped in drinking spot incident

A 40-year-old man from Pumula, Bulawayo, has died following an altercation over a cellphone at a local drinking spot, police have confirmed.

Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele identified the deceased as Witness Moyo. According to Inspector Msebele, the incident occurred at Pumula East shops where Moyo was drinking beer with a 39-year-old male friend.

"Moyo saw the accused, identified as Luke Mudenda, passing by and confronted him, demanding his cellphone which he alleged had been stolen by Mudenda in April 2025," Inspector Msebele explained.

Mudenda reportedly slapped Moyo once on the face with an open hand, causing Moyo to fall and hit the back of his head on the ground.

"Moyo lost consciousness but regained it after about five minutes. His friend then assisted him to walk home as he was having difficulty walking," said Inspector Msebele.

The following morning, Moyo's friend went to check on him and found him lying on his bed, face up, still showing some signs of life. The friend prepared food and attempted to feed Moyo, but he was unable to eat.

"At around 11:30 AM, the friend returned again to find Moyo in the same position, unresponsive to attempts to wake him," Inspector Msebele added.

A police report was filed, and Moyo's body was taken to United Bulawayo Hospitals mortuary for a post-mortem examination as investigations continue.