Peter Dube, who was convicted for fatally shooting two individuals in Gweru in 2021, may be charged with additional offenses after a High Court judge raised concerns during his trial.
Last week, Dube was found guilty of two murders and two attempted murders. The court heard that he shot Shelton Chiduku and Gamuchirai Madungwe at close range at a residence in Bensen Flats, Gweru. The prosecution also presented evidence that Dube tried to kill his second wife, Nyasha Nharingo, and her sister, Nyaradzo Nharingo, which led to the attempted murder charges.
However, Justice Munamato Mutevedzi pointed out that the prosecution did not include murder charges related to Nyaradzo, who later succumbed to her injuries. The judge questioned why her death was not formally charged, suggesting that the prosecution should clarify this omission.
The judge also highlighted the involvement of Dube’s senior wife, Nomatter Chiwawa, who allegedly assisted him in fleeing after the shootings. Justice Mutevedzi indicated that by helping Dube escape, she might have committed a criminal offense herself, and questioned why no legal action has been taken against her.
Dube claimed his violent acts were impulsive and caused by a mental health condition. However, the court rejected this defense, concluding that he acted intentionally and was fully aware of his actions when he committed the shootings and inflicted serious injuries. The judge noted that Dube failed to provide any proof of mental illness prior to the crimes.
Describing Dube’s defense as an attempt to avoid accountability, Justice Mutevedzi dismissed it as unconvincing and false. The prosecution successfully demonstrated Dube’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
Dube now awaits sentencing and may face further charges related to Nyaradzo’s death and the possible criminal involvement of his wife in aiding his escape.
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