SILOBELA – A 22-year-old man from Silobela has been arrested for allegedly stabbing his friend to death following a heated argument over a borrowed torch at Makende Business Centre. The shocking incident, which occurred on the night of November 1, 2025, has left the rural Midlands community reeling and once again highlighted the tragic consequences of violent disputes over minor disagreements.
According to Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, the suspect, identified as Lifa Matare, was drinking beer in the company of the deceased, Joseph Dube (19), and Joseph’s elder brother Pride Dube (23) when tempers flared. What began as a casual conversation quickly escalated into a deadly confrontation.
“On the fateful night, at around 8:30pm, the three men were at Makende Business Centre consuming beer. A misunderstanding arose when the now-deceased Joseph Dube demanded that Matare return a torch he had borrowed earlier,” said Inspector Mahoko.
He explained that Matare allegedly became defensive and agitated when pressed about the missing torch. The exchange grew more heated, drawing the attention of other revellers who were nearby.
“In the heat of the argument, Lifa withdrew a homemade knife from his waistband and stabbed Joseph Dube several times all over the body. Joseph fell to the ground, bleeding profusely, while the suspect fled from the scene,” Mahoko added.
Witnesses quickly called for help as Pride and other patrons tried desperately to save Joseph’s life. He was rushed to Silobela Hospital, but despite efforts to stabilise him, he succumbed to his injuries on the way.
Silobela Man Arrested for Fatal Stabbing Over Borrowed Torch
The brutal attack has left the local community in shock, with many struggling to comprehend how a trivial dispute could end so tragically. Residents who spoke to local reporters described the late Joseph as a quiet young man who rarely got into conflicts.
“It’s heartbreaking. Joseph was still very young and had a bright future ahead of him,” said one villager. “We are losing too many young people to senseless acts of violence.”
After an intense overnight manhunt, police managed to apprehend Matare, who was hiding in a nearby village. He is currently in police custody and is expected to appear in court soon facing murder charges. Authorities have since recovered the weapon believed to have been used in the attack.
Inspector Mahoko confirmed the arrest and commended the swift action by community members who assisted in tracking down the suspect. However, he also used the incident as an opportunity to issue a strong warning against violent behaviour.
“We continue to urge members of the public to exercise restraint when faced with disagreements. Violence only leads to tragedy,” Mahoko said. “There are many ways to resolve disputes peacefully, including seeking mediation through elders or reporting to the police.”
The Midlands province has recorded a disturbing rise in murder and assault cases linked to domestic or social disputes this year. Many of these cases, police say, stem from arguments during drinking sessions or over minor misunderstandings such as borrowed items, infidelity accusations, or unpaid debts.
In July, a similar case was reported in Gokwe, where a man fatally stabbed his neighbour after an argument over a missing cellphone. Law enforcement authorities have since intensified awareness campaigns urging citizens to value human life and report tensions early before they escalate into violence.
Community leaders in Silobela have also called for more social education and conflict resolution initiatives, especially among the youth. Village head Makende Ndlovu said the tragedy serves as a wake-up call for both families and local authorities.
“Our young people need guidance,” Ndlovu said. “We have seen too many lives lost over small issues that could have been easily resolved through dialogue. Alcohol abuse is also playing a huge role in these violent incidents.”
He urged the government and community organisations to support youth engagement programmes that promote discipline, self-control, and respect for life.
As the Dube family mourns their son, the atmosphere in Makende remains sombre. Friends and relatives gathered at the family homestead expressed their devastation and disbelief. Pride Dube, who witnessed the attack, is said to be traumatised and has been receiving counselling from local church leaders.
“Joseph was like my best friend,” one neighbour said. “It’s painful to think that he died because of something as small as a torch. This is not how life should end.”
Police investigations are still ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident, including whether the altercation was premeditated or spontaneous. The recovered knife has been sent for forensic examination as part of the case evidence.
As Silobela residents come to terms with the shocking loss, calls for unity and peace have intensified. Community elders are planning a local peace march to honour Joseph’s memory and to send a strong message against violence.
For now, Lifa Matare remains behind bars awaiting his day in court — a grim reminder that uncontrolled anger and the misuse of weapons continue to destroy young lives and families in Zimbabwe’s rural communities.
Source- Byo24
