Shurugwi shebeen queen set ablaze

Shurugwi (New Ziana) – A 64-year-old suspected Shurugwi shebeen queen was set ablaze allegedly by one of her patrons for refusing to give him beer on credit.

The granny is now at Shurugwi General Hospital receiving treatment.

Evans Chirawo Mataga, the suspected arsonist, is a co-tenant of the suspected shebeen queen. He is alleged to have doused the complainant with petrol and then set her ablaze.

Midlands police spokesperson, Emmanuel Mahoko said on June 15 at around 2pm, at Montdor North, Bonsor, Shurugwi, Matagu went to the woman’s residence where she allegedly operates a shebeen.

A shebeen is a place where alcoholic beverages are sold, usually in residential areas, without a license.

“He requested for beer on credit and the complainant refused, citing that he already owed her money,” Mahoko said.

Mataga allegedly became furious and set her on fire. Other shebeen patrons managed to put out the fire, thereby saving her life.

She was rushed to Shurugwi hospital after sustaining serious burns.

Police have since arrested Mataga, and investigations are in progress.

New Ziana