Four men accused of involvement in the death of an 18-year-old youth have appeared before the Harare Magistrates Court on murder allegations linked to an incid...
Four men accused of involvement in the death of an 18-year-old youth have appeared before the Harare Magistrates Court on murder allegations linked to an incident in Milton Park.
The accused are Shannel Nyakabawo (24), Vimbainashe Jamba (37), Edgar Kazingizi (43) and Robert Sifelani (23). They were brought before magistrate Ms Ruth Moyo.
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Because the charge falls under a third schedule offence, the court advised the accused that any bail application must be made at the High Court.
The matter was postponed to April 7 while the State prepares for indictment.
Prosecutor Mr Lawrence Gangarahwe told the court that the alleged offence took place in the early hours of April 19, 2026, at about 1am.
The deceased, Cosmas Gatsi, aged 18, was reportedly living at a squatter settlement near Avondale Stream in Milton Park.
State allegations are that Gatsi went to the residence of the four accused after another person had reportedly gone there to buy drugs.
Court papers state that a dispute then broke out after Gatsi allegedly woke those inside the house.
Prosecutors allege the confrontation turned violent, with the four men assaulting him using fists and unidentified objects.
The teenager is said to have suffered severe injuries, including deep wounds to the head and chin.
He reportedly managed to leave the scene but did not immediately seek treatment.
Police officers from Avondale Police Station later received information about the assault and attended to the matter.
Investigators reportedly spoke to Gatsi, who identified the people he said had attacked him.
The information allegedly led to the arrest of the four suspects.
A police assault report was opened and Gatsi was referred for medical treatment at Parirenyatwa Hospital.
However, prosecutors say he was pronounced dead on arrival before doctors could attend to him.
The accused persons were not required to enter pleas at the magistrates court stage.
They remain in custody unless the High Court grants bail.
The case is expected to proceed after completion of State processes.
