Childhood Grudge Ends in Stabbing as Matibi Drinking Session Turns Violent

MASVINGO – A childhood dispute allegedly resurfaced with violent consequences in Matibi after a 27-year-old man was stabbed during a drinking session when an old grudge from their school days was brought up.

The victim, Mandlaenkosi Chikwenhure, of Mafirenyika Village under Chief Mawarire, sustained serious injuries after he was allegedly attacked by fellow villager Aaron Ndou at Hungwe Bar in Matibi Business Centre. Police have since launched a manhunt for Ndou, who reportedly fled the scene following the incident.

According to Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa, the incident occurred at around 10 pm on 8 June 2026 while the two men were drinking beer at the popular business centre. Investigations indicate that the pair, who grew up together in the same community, began discussing a physical altercation they were involved in as children.

What initially appeared to be a casual conversation allegedly escalated after Ndou reportedly raised the issue of a fight that had occurred years earlier.

"Ndou reportedly told Chikwenhure that when they were young, he had beaten and defeated him, sparking a heated exchange," said Inspector Dhewa.

Witnesses told investigators that the discussion quickly turned into a heated argument as emotions flared over the long-forgotten childhood incident.

Police allege that the disagreement escalated when Ndou shoved Chikwenhure out of the bar before producing a knife from his pocket. The suspect allegedly stabbed Chikwenhure once in the back during the confrontation. Patrons at the bar reportedly rushed to assist the injured man as the suspect fled from the scene. The attack left Chikwenhure with a serious wound requiring urgent medical attention.

Following the incident, Chikwenhure was rushed to Mnene Hospital, where he received treatment for his injuries. Police confirmed that the victim is now in a stable condition and recovering. Medical personnel managed to stabilise him after the stabbing, preventing the injuries from becoming life-threatening.

Authorities have appealed to members of the public with information regarding Ndou's whereabouts to come forward and assist investigators. Inspector Dhewa said police are continuing investigations while efforts to locate and arrest the suspect intensify. The police spokesperson also used the incident to warn members of the public against carrying dangerous weapons, particularly while consuming alcohol.

Inspector Dhewa said many disputes that could otherwise be resolved peacefully often escalate into serious criminal offences when weapons are involved. He urged community members to settle disagreements amicably and avoid allowing old grudges, personal disputes, or misunderstandings to degenerate into violence. Police have also encouraged members of the public to seek lawful and peaceful means of resolving conflicts rather than resorting to physical confrontations. The matter remains under investigation, and no arrests have been made at the time of publication.

Matibi bar stabbing