Beer dispute turns violent, 2 men critically injured

Two men are fighting for their lives after a brutal machete attack by a drinking companion following a dispute over beer at Musapingura Business Centre in Chipinge.

Acting Manicaland police spokesperson Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the attempted murder case, which occurred under Chief Musikavanhu.

The victims, Paul Khumbuya (35) and Shemu Makuwere (47), had been drinking at the business centre on March 31 when they were joined by Marko Simango (23). According to police, tensions arose when Simango demanded more beer, but Khumbuya, who had been buying drinks, said he had run out of money.

The disagreement quickly escalated into violence, with Simango allegedly assaulting Khumbuya using a wooden log. Makuwere attempted to intervene before the suspect fled the scene.

However, the situation worsened the following morning. Police say Simango went to Khumbuya's homestead armed with a hoe handle and later a machete, attacking him and inflicting severe head and shoulder injuries. Makuwere, who was present at the time, was also struck and seriously injured.

Both men were rushed to St Peters Hospital, where Khumbuya remains in critical condition. The incident was reported to ZRP Middle Sabi, leading to Simango's arrest. Authorities also recovered the weapon used in the attack.

Police have warned against resolving disputes through violence, particularly under the influence of alcohol, and urged communities to report individuals with known histories of violent behaviour.

Simango remains in custody and is expected to appear in court soon as investigations continue.