Siblings appear in court over fatal beer dispute

Two siblings from Gwanda District in Matabeleland South have appeared in court facing murder charges following the death of a man during an alleged assault over a misunderstanding involving beer.

Bhekizulu Mathe (28) and Methembe Mathe (32) from Nhwali area appeared briefly before Gwanda magistrate Mr Progress Murandu. They were not asked to plead and were remanded in custody until 18 September, with the court advising them to seek bail at the High Court.

Prosecutor Ngonidzashe Shumba told the court that the incident occurred on 10 August when the pair attacked Peter Ncube after one of the siblings drank Ncube's beer without permission. The attack involved bricks and stones, leaving Ncube severely injured. He was rushed to United Bulawayo Hospitals, where he succumbed to his injuries the following day.

Shumba explained that the altercation began at Mabala Business Centre around 8pm, where Ncube was drinking with others. While he stepped away to use the toilet, Bhekizulu allegedly consumed Ncube's beer. When Ncube returned, he confronted the siblings, leading to a fight that was briefly broken up by other patrons.

Later that evening, as Ncube walked home, the siblings reportedly followed him, continuing the assault with kicks, punches, and bricks. Despite his calls for help, the accused fled, leaving Ncube injured on the ground.

Police investigations eventually led to the arrest of Bhekizulu and Methembe Mathe, who now face trial for Ncube's death.