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]Sukulwenkosi Dube- Matutu, Plumtree Correspondent
POLICE have launched a manhunt for a Bulilima man who allegedly fatally assaulted his 58-year-old neighbour with a log.

Matabeleland South provincial police spokesperson Inspector Philani Ndebele said Themba Khupe whose age was not known of Dombodema attacked Vine Ndebele on July 11 over an undisclosed issue.

Vine later died on Tuesday due to injuries he sustained during the attack.

“I can confirm that we are investigating a murder case where a 58-year-old Bulilima man died due to injuries that he sustained during an assault. Vine Ndebele was allegedly attacked by Themba Khupe with a log on July 11. He sustained a fractured arm and leg and received some treatment following the incident.

“Khupe later died on Tuesday and the post mortem report indicates that he died as a result of the assault. We have now launched a manhunt for Khupe who is the suspect in this case so that he can assist police with investigations,” he said.

Insp Ndebele said Khupe is suspected to have fled to Botswana soon after committing the offence. He said Khupe was initially charged with assault but the charge has been altered to murder following Vine’s death.

He appealed to members of the public with information on Khupe’s whereabouts to contact any police station near them.

“On Tuesday around 5AM Vine started complaining that he wasn’t feeling well and he died while on his was to hospital. We appeal to anyone with information on Khupe’s whereabouts to alert the police.

“As police we would also like to urge people to desist from resorting to violence when they have problems,” he said. — @DubeMatutu