A HARARE City Council employee appeared in court yesterday on attempted murder charges after he allegedly struck his colleague’s car with an axe, missing his head by a few centimetres, following a row over a housing scheme.
BY DESMOND CHINGARANDE
Tapiwa Mbangwa (27), from the city’s water department, who is out on $50 bail granted by the High Court, was remanded to January 17 by Harare magistrate, Rumbidzai Mugwagwa.
Allegations are that the complainant, Ruzvidzo Chatima, and Mbangwa, who are both members of the MMHH Housing Scheme, had a heated argument over the latter’s contributions.
The State alleges Mbangwa paid an excess contribution to the housing scheme and was refunded back part of his money through the scheme’s chairman, Chatima, leaving a balance of $60.
On August 15 last year, Mbangwa allegedly sent a text message to Chatima, threatening to kill him with an axe over the outstanding refund.
On October 23, Mbangwa met Chatima in the city centre and accused the complainant of having abused his money.
The State alleges a misunderstanding ensued and Mbangwa demanded that the two proceed to his home to verify the alleged balance against receipts.
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Mbangwa allegedly went home first on foot and Chatima followed just 10 minutes later in his car.
Chatima allegedly noticed Mbangwa getting an axe from his wife.
Sensing danger, Chatima allegedly tried to flee, but Mbangwa struck the car on the roof, missing the complainant’s head by a few centimetres.
A report was subsequently made at Marimba Police Station.
The State alleges the damage caused to Chatima’s Mercedes Benz vehicle is $3 900. The vehicle and the axe were kept as exhibits.
Audrey Chogumaira appeared for the State.
