Machete man’s mental status under scrutiny

A 36-YEAR-OLD machete-wielding man, who stormed a school speech and prize-giving ceremony at a Mutare hotel last week threatening to kill at least two people, is in remand prison awaiting mental examination.

Phillip Mutende (36), who was semi-naked and wielding a sharp machete as he besieged Golden Peacock and Villa Hotel last Thursday, destroyed property before armed police officers swiftly moved in to arrest him.

The Princeton Speech and Prize Giving ceremony was brought to a screeching halt after Mutende stormed the conference room and charged to the stage.

Pandemonium reigned supreme as guests and learners scurried for cover.

Police and the hotel’s general manager, Mr Adonis Mutigwe, confirmed the incident.

Said Mr Mutigwe: “The man drove into the hotel and was violent. He was wielding a machete and destroyed some of our property. We are happy that no-one was injured as police swiftly moved in and subdued the marauding man.” Manicaland provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Norbert Muzondo said Mutende was arrested for malicious damage to property.

“Mutende of Area 3 in Dangamvura went to Golden Peacock and Villa Hotel while recklessly driving a blue Toyota Hiace. He parked the kombi at the front of the conference room where the school was holding a speech and prize-giving function, with 400 children and 200 parents and guardians in attendance.

“Mutende snatched a bottle from one of the parents and poured water on her. A security guard tried to restrain him but Mutende dashed to his car and withdrew a machete. Those who were attending the function scurried for cover.

“He stormed into the conference room and destroyed five chairs and three tables. He went to the stage, took a projector and smashed it on the floor. He smashed a laptop using the machete and hit the ceiling roof. The matter was reported to the police who quickly moved in and disarmed him. Property worth US$783 was destroyed,” said Insp Muzondo.

Mutende appeared in court early this week and Mutare magistrate, MsPrisca Manhibi ordered his mental examination.

Ms Manhibi remanded Mutende in custody to next Friday to enable him to be examined by two doctors in accordance with the Mental Health Act.

Ms Sharon Chibvongodze prosecuted. Mr Sebastian Mukuchura, Director at Princeton Institute, said the event was coming to an end when Mutende showed up.

“Just a few parents and their children were still at the hotel when the incident happened.

“We saw the assailant coming into the conference room while shouting on top of his voice and threatening to kill anyone who would dare stop him.”