The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) are appealing to the public to avoid violence when resolving disputes, following a harrowing attempted murder case at Majuta fuel station in Charandura Business Centre, Chirumhanzu.
ZRP Midlands spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said on 17 July, a wage dispute escalated into a violent confrontation that left Chrispen Chengeta, 37, fighting for his life after being brutally stabbed.
He said the incident began around 4:00 PM when Chengeta, from Village Gwatiringa, approached a female colleague responsible for paying wages, demanding his previous day’s wage of $24. Told to wait for their employer, Chengeta became agitated, leading to a heated argument.
Justin Svosve, 38, another employee, overheard the argument and attempted to mediate, advising Chengeta to take up the issue with their employer. This further enraged Chengeta, who tore Svosve’s shirt, intensifying the conflict.
Later, Svosve, now armed with a knife and an iron bar, confronted Chengeta, striking him on the back with the bar before stabbing him in the stomach, leaving his intestines exposed. Chengeta was rushed to St Theresa Hospital, where he remains in serious condition.
Police responded to the scene and arrested Svosve.
