By Walter Mswazie
A MARRIED Masvingo man is fighting for life at Harare Central Hospital after his married girlfriend allegedly doused him with paraffin and set him alight.
Hardlife Ndlovu, 34, of Pangolin suburb allegedly lied to his wife that he was going to watch soccer at a local shop yet he was visiting Juliet Marega, 31, of Runyararo West suburb.
Ndlovu sustained third-degree burns following the attack on Saturday, at around 7PM. The two lovers allegedly had a fallout over a $15 debt for potatoes. Marega is allegedly married to a South African-based man.
Neighbours said Marega had taken the potatoes from Ndlovu on credit and seemed to be using their relationship to avoid paying. Nadia Chombe of Runyararo West said she saw Ndlovu entering Marega’s lodgings after which she heard the two quarrelling over a debt.
“Ndlovu demanded payment and seized Marega’s cellphone. He thereafter started punching her,” said Chombe. An irate Marega, said Chombe, doused Ndlovu with paraffin and set him ablaze.
Another neighbour, only identified as Tendai, said Ndlovu who was in flames could be seen rolling on the ground while shouting for help as he tried to put out the fire. She said his cries attracted neighbours who rushed to the scene and managed to put out the fire.
“He sustained serious burns on the chest, back, head, abdomen and limbs,” said Tendai.
Ndlovu was rushed to Masvingo General Hospital and was later transferred to Harare Central Hospital.
Masvingo police spokesperson Inspector Charity Mazula said Marega had been arrested and was assisting police with investigations. She said the woman who is likely to face attempted murder charges, would appear in court soon.
“I can confirm receiving a report to that effect. A man from Mucheke was seriously burnt by his girlfriend following a misunderstanding over a $15 debt from the sale of potatoes. He sustained serious burns on the chest and all over the body,” said Insp Mazula.
She said Ndlovu’s condition remains critical. Insp Mazula advised members of the public to seek counselling when they have misunderstandings instead of resorting to violence. The Chronicle
