Mental patient fatally axes sister (14)

POLICE in Macheke, Mashonaland East, have arrested a 29-year-old suspected mental patient who went berserk and axed his 14-year-old sister to death.

Washington Chimhanda of Plot 4, Longridge Farm, is currently assisting police with investigations following the death of his sister, Polite, whom he allegedly struck with an axe several times on the head and stomach.

Provincial police spokesperson Inspector Tendai Mwanza yesterday confirmed the incident and urged those in the custody of mental patients to closely monitor them and also ensure that they religiously take their medication.

“It is heart-rending to report this horrible case which could have been avoided had those who were present reacted promptly to the alleged threats,” Mwanza said.

“Those taking care of mentally-retarded patients should do so with caution at all times and make sure that they are not exposed to weapons which they can potentially use to injure or kill someone. They must also be monitored closely for them not to skip taking their medication.”

It is reported that on May 9, at around 11am, the suspect had an altercation with his father over an undisclosed family matter.

The suspect became violent and threatened to kill all the family members. He went to sharpen his axe in preparation for the heinous act.

At around 7pm, the suspect then left other family members having supper saying he was retiring to bed.

It is reported that the suspect immediately grabbed his axe and struck his sister on the head and stomach.

The deceased reportedly tried to flee from the scene, but collapsed and died.

A police report was filed, leading to the arrest of the suspect while the deceased’s body was taken to Marondera Provincial Hospital for post-mortem.