An 18-year-old man in Nkulumane, Zimbabwe, has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly stabbing a 15-year-old boy in the chest over a misunderstanding that reportedly stemmed from a suspected love triangle.
The incident took place on July 19, 2025, at Sokusile Shopping Centre. The younger teen was seriously injured and taken to Mpilo Hospital, where he is now recovering.
According to court proceedings, the victim had been receiving academic help from a female classmate when her boyfriend, 18-year-old Qhawelenkosi Mnkandla, allegedly misinterpreted the situation as a romantic interaction. Believing there was a rivalry, Mnkandla is said to have confronted the boy.
“The suspect allegedly confronted the victim about a rumoured romantic involvement,” Principal Prosecutor Milton Moyo told the Western Commonage Court. “The verbal exchange escalated, resulting in the accused allegedly producing a knife and stabbing the victim in the chest.”
Emergency services responded quickly, and the boy was rushed to hospital. His condition is reportedly stable.
Mnkandla appeared before Magistrate Sibongile Marondedze and was granted bail with strict conditions: he must avoid contact with witnesses, remain at his current address, and report weekly to Nkulumane Police Station.
The case is set to continue on August 8, 2025.
