Herdman axes employer's son over $20

A BINGA herdman will rue the day he struck his employer's son who had demanded his $20 with an axe.

Mlungisi Moyo (24) of Chishizha, Lusulu in Binga, pleaded guilty to attempted murder when he appeared before regional magistrate Mrs Dambudzo Malunga who sentenced him to an effective three year imprisonment.

Prosecuting, Mr Tawanda Sigauke said on 17 August at around 7pm, Adam Ncube was walking along a dust road from Chishizha to Zyakamana when he met Moyo who was riding a scotchcart. The two decided to travel together but Ncube continued on foot with Moyo in the scotchcart.

While on their way, Ncube then demanded $20 that the accused owed him and Moyo promised to pay back the money but could not give a date. An argument ensued as Ncube maintained that the debt was long overdue and this angered Moyo who jumped off the cart wielding an axe.

He struck Ncube with the axe twice on the head and once on the forehead and shoulder, resulting in Ncube falling unconscious.

Moyo then proceeded on his way, leaving Ncube lying on the road. Ncube later regained consciousness and returned to his homestead where he was assisted to make a police report, leading to Moyo's arrest.

Ncube, who was rushed to Binga Hospital, sustained two deep cuts on the head.