Snooker dispute ends in fatal stabbing

A 21-year-old man was allegedly beaten with wooden sticks and stabbed to death following an argument over snooker tokens at a business centre in Gokwe North, Midlands Province.

The victim, identified as Shuwa Ndlovu of Ganyani Village under Chief Simuchembo, died at Vumba Business Centre on Sunday evening after a dispute with two men he had been playing snooker with.

Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the incident, saying two suspects, Isheunesu Ganyani (20) and Tinashe Ganyani (19), had been arrested in connection with the killing.

According to police, the three were playing snooker when a disagreement arose over the purchase of tokens used in the game.

The misunderstanding allegedly escalated into violence, with the two suspects taking turns to assault Ndlovu using wooden sticks.

Police said the suspects then allegedly stabbed the victim in the chest and stomach, inflicting fatal injuries.

"Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms a case of murder where a 21-year-old man died after he was stabbed with a knife. The incident occurred at Vumba Business Centre, Gokwe North, on 1 November 2026 at around 9.30PM," Mahoko said.

"Ndlovu fell down and died on the spot. The suspects have since been arrested and are assisting police with investigations."

The incident has once again highlighted the dangers of resorting to violence during disputes that could otherwise be resolved peacefully.

Mahoko expressed concern over the loss of life, urging members of the public to exercise restraint when disagreements arise.

"We have once again lost a life in circumstances where dialogue should have been the best route in finding a solution," he said.

"We once again implore on the public to desist from violent behaviour as it risks loss of life."

Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fatal attack are continuing.