Two Bmd Members Still Hospitalised
Chakalisa Dube | Monday July 31, 2017 16:58
Two weeks ago, BMD factions, one headed by Nehemiah Modubule and the other by Ndaba Gaolathe, engaged in a brutal fight at Matshekge Secondary School after supporters of the latter were not allowed into the school.
While they maintained the contrary, members of Gaolathe’s faction were said to be not illegible to attend the congress.
Matshekge was to hold the BMD elective congress. Both factions ended up holding separate elective congresses with each faction electing its own leadership.
In total four people belonging to Gaolathe’s faction were injured, but two were treated and discharged the same day as they had suffered minor injuries.
The two who are still in hospital suffered severe head injuries. In fact, one of them had to be taken into a life support machine where he would later regain stability.
“We are checking their conditions every two days, and we have been in constant touch with their families,” said Assistant Commissioner of Police Deputy Divisional Commander- North Central- Tamapo Bonyongo Nthoiwa in an interview on Friday.
Bonyongo also said the police were working with authorities at Matshekge have completed assessment of the school property damaged by the warring BMD factions.
The quotation of the damaged property, according to Nthoiwa does not exceed P700. Windows of the school guard room and some houses occupied by teachers were shattered by stones pelted by the BMD members.
Bonyongo added that investigations are still ongoing and that no charges have been laid against anyone involved in the fight. Both factions have accused each other of instigating the fight.
“After recording all the evidence from witnesses, we will be able to know who to approach in relation to the damage to property and injuries sustained. We hope to have completed this week,” he said.
Yesterday, Gilbert Mangole who is a secretary general in a committee belonging to Modubule’s faction, said that they have already repaired the damaged school property.
“Yesterday (Saturday) at our NEC meeting it was reported that the damage to the school property was minimal.
It was also stated that repair works (to the damaged property) have already been completed,” he said.
Mangole also said the party will offer legal and other form of support to their members should any of them be charged in relation to the fighting at the school.
Despite repeated efforts, there was no comment from members of Gaolathe’s faction.