Tinotenda Hove – A disagreement over sharing beer turned deadly in Nyajena, Masvingo, after a man allegedly murdered his colleague during a drinking spree at a local business centre.

The suspect, Maxwell Marumbwa of Manyise Village under Chief Nyajena, is reportedly on the run following the killing of Sentie Hando from Mukarudzo Village, also under Chief Nyajena. The incident occurred at Zengeza Business Centre last Saturday.

According to police reports, the two men were drinking together at around 2pm when an argument erupted. Marumbwa allegedly produced an empty two-litre bottle and demanded that Hando fill it with beer.

Hando reportedly left the bar briefly to attend to a phone call. However, when he returned, tensions escalated. In an apparent attempt to avoid trouble, Hando stepped outside, but Marumbwa followed him, and a violent confrontation ensued.

Eyewitnesses said Hando tried to flee as Marumbwa chased after him. When he failed to catch him, Marumbwa allegedly returned to the bar and told other patrons that he had lost sight of Hando.

Hando’s body was discovered the following day in an open area near the bar. Police noted that the deceased had visible bruises on his left cheek and a deep cut on his right shoulder.

Masvingo police have since launched a manhunt for Marumbwa and are appealing to members of the public with information on his whereabouts to come forward.