Hwange (New Ziana) -Nkayi and Lupane districts in Matabeleland North had the highest number of murder cases last year, contributing 26 and 22 respectively out of the 65 recorded in the region, a High Court Judge has revealed.

Matebeleland North region comprises Hwange, Lupane, Nkayi and Victoria Falls districts.

Speaking during the official opening of the Hwange High Court circuit, Justice Nokuthula Moyo said most of the murders occurred at beer drinks and usually involved Okapi knives and other dangerous weapons.

“Hwange had thirteen cases and Victoria Falls had four,” she said.

“Citizens of Nkayi and Lupane seem to be the most violent in the region,” she added.

Justice Moyo encouraged residents in the region to desist from violence and instead, try peace initiatives like engaging elders, church pastors and village heads in resolving disputes.

“We cannot afford to have a violent society. We need each other as brothers and sisters to co-exist and be good neighbours as the bible says. We cannot afford to have people who use violence as a way of life,” she said.

The Hwange High Court circuit will hear 20 murder cases, one of which involved the use of a machete.

“It appears the machete vice has not yet become rampant in this region as there is only one case in the cause list out of the 20 cases lined up for this circuit where a machete was allegedly used,” said Justice Moyo.

Zimbabwe recently experienced a wave of machete attacks particularly in mining areas as the gangs fought for claims as well as robbed each other of ore.

Security agencies cracked down on the gangs and put an end to the menace, which was spreading to cities and towns and preventing citizens from going about their daily activities.

New Ziana