A late-night prayer session in Plumtree took a dark and unexpected turn when a drunken altercation between two friends ended with one fatally stabbed and left to die outdoors. Because what’s a prayer meeting without a little violence, right?
Jethro Ndlovu hosted a family prayer meeting at his home, which somehow morphed into a drinking session with his friend Qhawelethu Mpofu. The night quickly descended into chaos when Ndlovu discovered Mpofu rummaging through his wardrobe.
Ndlovu claimed Mpofu was searching for something, but his friend remained silent. Frustrated, Ndlovu gave Mpofu a slap, which sparked a heated exchange. Mpofu allegedly grabbed an okapi knife, prompting Ndlovu to act on instinct. He wrestled the knife from Mpofu and struck his thigh.
Instead of calling for help, Ndlovu dragged his injured friend outside and left him bleeding in the yard. By morning, Mpofu had succumbed to his injuries.
Bulawayo High Court Judge Naison Chivayo convicted Ndlovu of culpable homicide, reducing the charge from murder. Ndlovu received a five-year prison sentence, with three years suspended for good behavior. The remaining two years were suspended on the condition that he pays a US$600 fine — or face 36 months behind bars.
This incident raises questions about the blurred lines between spirituality and violence.
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