Story by Providence Maraneli
RESIDENTS of West Nicholson in Gwanda are living in fear following a sharp increase in robberies and ritual murders involving machete-wielding gangs.
While West Nicholson has been popular for being a gateway to quick riches in Gwanda, life has been bitter-sweet for the residents who have been on the receiving end of the armed gangs.
Robberies, muggings and ritual murders are now common in the area to such an extent that residents are now being forced to be indoors as early as 6. pm.
The situation is worse for the elderly like Gogo Ruth Ncube, who is nursing three children who were recently attacked by a suspected machete-wielding gang.
“We are so scared, even during the day you can get mugged. My children were attacked. I just came from the hospital to change my son’s sheets and if you look at the blood oozing from the wounds you cry. I am frightened,” she said.
The local leadership has since sent a distress call to the responsible authorities to assist.
“I am calling on the police to help us, our community cannot continue living like this. Our people are now scared to go about our business. Some have their hammer mills taken and some have their wares taken at the market. It cannot continue like this,” said Mthokozisi Tshuma, the councillor.
ZRP Matabeleland South Provincial Spokesperson, Inspector Loveness Mangena told ZBC News that they are investigating the matter.
