Woman fined for pouring hot porridge on husband

A 28-year-old Bulawayo woman has been ordered to pay a US$150 fine after pouring hot porridge on her husband's back and left hand during a domestic dispute.

Sylvia Ngulube, a resident of Entumbane suburb, appeared before Western Commonage Magistrate, Mr Jeconia Prince Ncube, facing a charge of physical abuse. Ngulube pleaded guilty to the offence and was sentenced to pay the fine, or serve three months in prison if she fails to meet the payment deadline of January 1, 2026.

Prosecutor Ms Cathrine Kuzu told the court that the incident occurred on the morning of December 2 at around 8:35 AM, when Ngulube and her husband, 34-year-old Christopher Ndlovu, had a disagreement at home. During the altercation, Ngulube reportedly poured a pot of hot porridge over Ndlovu's back and left hand, resulting in injuries that required medical attention.

A police report was subsequently filed, leading to Ngulube's arrest and prosecution. The magistrate handed down the sentence, emphasizing the seriousness of domestic abuse, while taking into account the guilty plea.