The usually quiet community of Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe was left in shock after a violent family dispute led to a devastating act of arson, resulting in the destruction of a house and car.
The incident, which has been the center of attention, recently concluded with a verdict at the Chinhoyi Magistrates’ Court.
Knowledge Jani, a 21-year-old resident of Shackleton Mine, was sentenced to 4 years in prison, with one year suspended, after being found guilty of malicious property damage. His violent outburst occurred on April 22, 2024, when a heated argument at his father’s home spiraled out of control.
Jani, in a fit of rage, accused his father and stepmother of practicing witchcraft, which he claimed was responsible for his ongoing illness. Enraged, Jani attacked his father’s Nissan Sunny, shattering its windows and severely damaging its exterior. He then siphoned fuel from the vehicle and used it to set his father’s house on fire, before igniting the already damaged car.
The damage from the fire was extensive, with losses estimated at USD 14,000. Emergency responders were able to contain the flames, but not before the property had been significantly destroyed. Jani was arrested at the scene following a distress call from his father.
The court’s ruling, eagerly awaited by both the community and the affected family, culminated in Jani receiving a 4-year sentence, with one year suspended on the condition that he does not commit a similar offense in that time, leaving him to serve an effective 3 years in prison.
