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Mashudu Netsianda, Senior Court Reporter

THE High Court opened on Monday for the second term with 20 murder cases lined up for trial in Bulawayo including a soldier who allegedly shot dead his wife, her two siblings and also injured his one-year-old daughter before shooting himself in New Magwegwe suburb. 

Carlos Tinashe Chapeyema (24) allegedly opened fire on his wife Ashley Phiri (21), her two siblings and daughter and after the blood-curdling attack, he turned the gun on himself in a botched attempt to kill himself. 

According to the criminal cause list, a total of nine State witnesses are expected to testify during the trial set for May 30.

The High Court is expected to also hear the case of Tashinga Musonza (29), an Airforce of Zimbabwe pilot, accused of brutally murdering his Gweru-based girlfriend late last year. 

Musonza allegedly fatally assaulted Lucy Duve who was working for a local Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) accusing her of cheating on him with his colleague.

A total of 16 State witnesses will give their evidence in court when the trial kicks off on June 18.

Another high profile case, which kicks off today is a matter of 10 suspects allegedly involved in the theft of nearly $1 million worth of gold which was being kept as an exhibit at Plumtree Police Station.

Bulawayo High Court judge Justice Thompson Mabhikwa is expected to give a ruling following the accused persons’ application for discharge at the close of the State case. 

The High Court will also hear 30 criminal appeals during the course of the term.

— @mashnets