Man tried to kill himself says he was 'intoxicated'

A dramatic scene unfolded in St Mary's, Chitungwiza, yesterday when a young man climbed a tower light and threatened to take his own life, bringing the busy neighbourhood to a complete standstill. The man, identified as Ruwo Pandukani, later told reporters that he was under the influence of drugs at the time of the incident.

Pandukani, who lives at House Number 867 Chitungwiza Road near Huruyadzo Shopping Centre, admitted that he had taken crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as mutoriro or dombo. The young man said he bought the drug for US$5, intending to share it with a local woman, only identified as Karen, whom he had been pursuing romantically.

However, when Karen allegedly chose to use the drug with another man named Tino, Pandukani felt betrayed and heartbroken. Overcome by emotional distress and the effects of the drug, he told friends that he would end his life the next day.

True to his word, he climbed a tall tower light in St Mary's, threatening to jump. The spectacle drew a massive crowd as residents rushed to witness the shocking event.

Local resident Leonard Liyaya, one of the first people on the scene, said he tried to reason with Pandukani but feared that putting too much pressure on him could worsen the situation. "He kept saying he wanted to die. It was frightening to watch," Liyaya said.

The Fire Brigade was eventually called in to assist. Firefighters reportedly offered Pandukani US$10 to persuade him to come down, but he demanded US$15 before agreeing to descend. Once safely brought down, he was taken to St Mary's Police Station for further assistance.

The incident has once again highlighted Zimbabwe's worsening drug abuse crisis. Experts warn that crystal meth has become one of the most dangerous and commonly used substances among young people in urban areas.

According to recent studies, about 60% of patients admitted to psychiatric facilities in Zimbabwe suffer from conditions linked to drug and substance abuse, with methamphetamine use particularly widespread among unemployed youth.

Authorities and health experts continue to urge communities to take an active role in addressing the escalating scourge of drug addiction, which is destroying lives and families across the nation.