Bulawayo Landlord Fined US$140 After Assaulting Tenant Over US$30 Deposit
A 68-year-old Bulawayo landlord has been fined US$140 after assaulting his tenant during a dispute over a US$30 rental deposit, with the altercation leaving the woman injured and requiring medical treatment.
Nyangirai Nyanyiwa of Emganwini appeared before the Western Commonage Magistrates’ Court, where he was convicted of assault following the violent confrontation with his tenant, Everjoy Ndlovu.
Also Read: Tenant Kills Landlord For Trying To Evict Him Over Unpaid Rentals
Deposit Dispute Escalates
According to B-Metro, the incident occurred on 3 June as Ndlovu was moving out of the property she had rented from Nyanyiwa. Before leaving, she requested the return of the US$30 deposit she had paid at the beginning of her tenancy.
Instead of refunding the money, the disagreement quickly spiralled into violence.
The court heard that Nyanyiwa allegedly slapped Ndlovu, grabbed her by the collar, strangled her and repeatedly punched her before shoving her to the ground.
During the attack, Ndlovu fell face-first onto a stone and sustained injuries.
Victim Sought Medical Attention
After the assault, Ndlovu sought medical treatment before reporting the matter to the police, leading to Nyanyiwa’s arrest and prosecution.
Prosecutor Tafara Dzimbanhete told the court that the victim suffered injuries after being dragged during the confrontation.
Conflicting Accounts in Court
While admitting there had been an altercation, Nyanyiwa denied assaulting the tenant as described by the prosecution.
He told the court that he had only pushed Ndlovu in anger, causing her to fall onto a stone.
The pensioner also claimed he later paid her US$300 after learning she had been injured.
However, Ndlovu disputed that version of events, telling the court she never received any money from Nyanyiwa.
She explained that although his son assisted by settling hospital expenses directly, no cash was ever handed to her.
Fine or Jail
Magistrate Jeconia Prince Ncube found Nyanyiwa guilty of assault and ordered him to pay a US$140 fine by 24 July.
Should he fail to pay the fine, he will serve two months in prison.
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