Crimes and Courts
HWANGE – A 45-year-old man from Gwayi appeared before the Hwange Magistrates’ Court on charges of malicious damage to property after allegedly burning his wife’s belongings in a fit of anger.
The incident occurred on March 2, 2025, when the accused returned home around 2 PM and discovered that his 44-year-old wife had gone to church, leaving their children unattended.
Enraged, he gathered his wife’s clothes, baby clothes, and 20 kilograms of wheat from the kitchen, piled them in the yard, and set them ablaze before leaving for work.
The wife returned home at approximately 4 PM and was informed of the incident by their daughter. The destroyed property was valued at US$60, prompting her to report the matter to the police, leading to her husband’s arrest.
In court, the man was sentenced to pay a US$100 fine or face three months in prison if he failed to pay. Additionally, the magistrate suspended one month of the sentence on condition that he reimburses his wife US$60 for the damaged property.
When approached for comment, a police spokesperson stated,
“Domestic disputes should never escalate to destruction of property. The law will take its course in such matters to ensure justice and deterrence.”
Neighbors expressed shock over the incident, with one resident saying,
“This is extreme behavior—families should resolve conflicts peacefully.”
The case highlights ongoing concerns over domestic conflicts and property rights violations in the region. Authorities have urged couples to seek mediation rather than resorting to destructive actions.
Zim GBC News©2025