Man hits gossiping neighbour with machete

A dispute over a rumour in Rangemore escalated into a violent attack, leaving local resident Zanele Maseko injured and her assailant behind bars.

According to reports, Maseko had been telling neighbours that Joseph Nyathi's wife was expecting. Nyathi, angered by the gossip, confronted Maseko at her home around 10pm on October 19. He was initially armed with an empty beer bottle and demanded to know why she was spreading rumours that did not concern her.

When Maseko opened the door, Nyathi allegedly smashed the bottle and advanced towards her. Onlookers intervened, restoring temporary peace. Moments later, Nyathi returned, this time wielding a machete. In the attack, the machete struck Maseko on the forehead before Nyathi fled the scene. Maseko was rushed to hospital for treatment.

Police were called, and a report was filed. Nyathi was subsequently arrested and charged. Western Commonage Regional Magistrate Pasipanodya Maturure found him guilty of attempted murder and sentenced him to five years in prison, with two years suspended on condition of good behaviour. He will serve the remaining three years of his sentence.

The case highlights how disputes over rumours can quickly escalate into serious violence, with severe legal consequences for perpetrators.