Gwanda (New Ziana) – Two Gwanda gold panners have been arrested for allegedly murdering a man whom they suspected of trying to steal money from them, local police said on Wednesday.

The deceased, Darlington Nyoni, had been drinking at a night spot in Gwanda when he had an altercation with the duo over suspected attempted theft.

Matabeleland South Provincial police spokesperson, Loveness Mangena said the duo attacked Nyoni with machetes and an okapi knife, leading to his death.

“The deceased was stabbed by the two who were identified by witnesses. A report was made (to police) resulting in the arrest of the duo,” she said.

The accused are of no fixed abode, and are in custody awaiting trial.

Mangena expressed concern over rising murder cases in the region, most of which involve gold panners.

New Ziana