6 years for mob leader in brutal nightclub attack

A 26-year-old man will spend six years in prison after leading a violent mob assault that nearly claimed the life of a shop assistant in Zvishavane.

Mthulisi Mangena was sentenced by the Zvishavane Magistrates' Court for attempted murder following the brutal midnight attack outside a packed nightclub on December 14, 2025.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the victim had been relaxing inside the club when a woman seated next to him was accused of stealing a watch. Mangena and his accomplices allegedly dragged the woman outside.

Sensing trouble, the victim followed.

Prosecutors said the gang then turned on him, shouting "Ndiye umwe wacho" ("He is the other one") before launching a sustained assault.

The victim was struck on the back of the head with a beer bottle and fell to the ground. While he was down, the group allegedly kicked and assaulted him with stones and a metal object. During the attack, he was robbed of US$354 and his house keys.

Mangena reportedly attempted to stab the victim with an okapi knife but was restrained by another member of the group.

The injured man was then forced into a black Toyota Aqua, driven away from the nightclub and later dumped unconscious along Escrow Way.

He sustained serious injuries, including deep head lacerations, the loss of three teeth, a broken tooth and severe bruising to his face and arms. Medical evidence presented in court confirmed that some of the injuries are permanent.

The NPAZ condemned the violence, warning that those who turn public spaces into scenes of brutality will face stiff penalties.

Mangena will serve six years behind bars for his role in the attack.