Gokwe villager acquitted of onet another murder charge
By Dumisani Ndlovu
A Gokwe habitual killer, Farai Mahwindi from Magama village under Chief Nemangwe, was acquitted of yet another murder charge related to the fatal killing of his 80-year-old grandmother in February 2024.
The acquittal came after the court deemed Mahwindi unfit to stand trial due to his mental condition, resulting in the abortion of the trial. In passing the verdict, Judge Justice Munamato Mutevedzi expressed grave concern over the complexities surrounding the justice system.
“It is incumbent upon relatives of mentally challenged people to take full responsibility. They should ensure they take medication religiously,” Judge Mutevedzi.
He emphasized,highlighting the need for thorough scrutiny and examination of mentally challenged individuals at mental health institutions before their release into society.
The judge also urged relatives and parents of mentally challenged individuals “to exercise due diligence and remain vigilant, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the individual and the community.”
Mahwindi’s history of violence dates back to 2018 when he was acquitted of murder charges due to insanity after killing a person. He was then referred to Mulondolozi Psychiatric institution for treatment and released upon recovery.
However, barely three months later, Mahwindi committed another brutal murder, killing his grandmother with a hoe handle and attempting to consume her breast. This horrific incident raised questions about the effectiveness of mental health evaluations and treatment.
Judge Mutevedzi noted, “It is clear the person remains a danger not only to himself but to society.” Therefore, he ordered Mahwindi’s return to Hwahwa Prison for referral to Mulondolozi for further treatment.
The accused’s defense, Fadzai Murehwa of Gundu, Dube and Pamacheche Legal Practitioner, and the state agreed on Mahwindi’s mental health status, leading to the not-guilty verdict due to insanity under Section 29(2)B.
This case highlights the complexities of the justice system and the need for comprehensive mental health evaluations in criminal proceedings, sparking concerns about mental health evaluations, treatment, and community reintegration.
