Four brothers and neighbor sentenced to life imprisonment for gruesome murder in Silobela
By Dumisani Ndlovu
In a deeply unsettling case that has reverberated through the community of Silobela, four brothers and their neighbor have been sentenced to life imprisonment for the premeditated murder of a fellow villager, Isabel Ndlovu. The High Court in Gweru delivered the verdict earlier this week, following the brutal attack that shocked local residents on November 30, 2022. The accused — Mkhululi Ncube (28), Qhubekani Ncube (25), Cabangani Ncube (32), Thulani Ncube, and Mexen Moyo (30) — now face significant consequences for their heinous actions.
During the sentencing, Justice Munato Mutevedzi underscored the critical legal distinctions within Zimbabwean law regarding murder committed under aggravating circumstances. Citing section 47(4) of the Criminal Law Code and the guidelines established in S.I. 146/23, he indicated that while the death penalty has been abolished, life imprisonment is the appropriate penalty for murder characterized by severe circumstances. “In less egregious cases,” Justice Mutevedzi noted, “the presumptive penalty is 15 years, but the premeditated nature of this crime clearly warranted the maximum sentence.”
The court’s decision was backed by comprehensive evidence presented by the prosecution, including meticulous investigations conducted by the Zimbabwe Republic Police. Deputy Prosecutor General Justine Uladi, who played a pivotal role in the prosecution, delivered a compelling case that showcased the facts and circumstances surrounding the crime. “Your worship I pray that Justice be served today, and this verdict sends a strong message to the community that acts of violence will not be tolerated,” Uladi pleaded with the court before the sentencing, reflecting a profound commitment to ensuring accountability for such brutal acts.
The tragic events unfolded at approximately 4 PM at the Linda Business Centre, particularly at Maranga’s shop, where Ndlovu was confronted by the accused. Armed with knives and other weapons, the Ncube brothers and Moyo launched a frenzied assault on Ndlovu, who initially attempted to escape. The court heard how Mexen Moyo struck Ndlovu with an empty beer bottle, which incapacitated him, allowing the brothers to stab him multiple times in the legs and buttocks. The violence escalated further, with Thulani striking Ndlovu with a log, and Mkhululi stomping on his neck and kicking him in the ribs.
Ndlovu was rushed to Kwekwe District Hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. A postmortem examination conducted at the United Bulawayo Hospital confirmed that the cause of death was hypovolemic shock due to multiple stab wounds. Testimonies from six eyewitnesses corroborated the prosecution’s narrative, illustrating the brutality and premeditation involved in the attack.
The community of Silobela is now left grappling with the repercussions of this senseless act of violence, as well as the haunting memories of that fateful day. While the sentences serve as a form of justice for the victim and a warning to those considering similar actions, it is evident that the scars left on the community will take much longer to heal.
As members of the public and traditional leaders reflect on this case, it is crucial to address the root causes of violence within communities. The decisive action taken by the justice system in this instance highlights the need for continued advocacy against violent crime and the importance of community cooperation in fostering a safe environment for all.
In conclusion, the life sentences handed down to the Ncube brothers and Moyo demonstrate a firm stand against brutal acts of violence in Zimbabwe. As the community seeks to heal from this tragedy, it is imperative for all stakeholders to remain united in their efforts to combat violence and promote peace within their neighborhoods.
