International News
Zimbabwean Man Jailed for Three Lifetimes and 226 Years for Grisly Crimes

PRETORIA | In a landmark ruling, the Pretoria High Court has handed down three life sentences and an additional 226 years’ imprisonment to Leonard Lemmy Chauke, a 34-year-old Zimbabwean man convicted on 26 counts of various crimes, including rape, murder, illegal migration, kidnapping, housebreaking, escaping from jail, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, and robbery.
Confirming the sentences, Ms Lumka Mahanjana, spokesperson for the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) Gauteng Division in Pretoria, revealed that Chauke was originally arrested for housebreaking and robbery and was serving a 15-year jail term.
However, he managed to escape from jail in 2020, leading to his subsequent arrest on a range of other charges.
Chauke’s crimes, committed after his escape, involved a series of violent incidents in and around Olievenhoutbosch and Wierda Park.
Alongside his accomplices, he would break into homes, rob the occupants, and brutally assault female victims, subjecting them to gang rape in nearby fields.
The youngest victim was a 17-year-old girl. On June 7, 2022, Chauke and his accomplice shot and killed a 35-year-old man at a squatter camp in Olievenhoutbosch.
During the trial, Chauke pleaded guilty to all charges and claimed that he had committed the offenses while under the influence of drugs.
He requested a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentences due to his time spent in custody since his arrest.
However, prosecutor Advocate Mokautu Masilo argued that Chauke’s lack of remorse and his attempt to attribute his actions solely to drug use demonstrated his refusal to accept responsibility.
Masilo also emphasized the heinous nature of the crimes and the meticulous planning involved, which targeted vulnerable individuals and involved threats with weapons.
Seven victim impact statements were presented to the court, detailing the emotional toll experienced by the victims.
The statements were facilitated by the Court Preparation Officer, Lebogang Lebese. Based on these statements and the prosecution’s arguments, the court was urged to impose the prescribed minimum sentence.
Judge Portia Phahlane, presiding over the case, concurred with the prosecution’s assessment, emphasizing that Chauke’s lack of remorse and the severity of his offenses warranted a strong sentence.
The judge stressed the importance of protecting law-abiding citizens from criminals like Chauke, stating that everyone has the right to life, which should not be violated. The sentence serves as a clear message that such behavior is unacceptable.
Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Sibongile Mzinyathi, commended the court’s decision and applauded the efforts of the investigating officer, Sgt Edward Matsobane, and the prosecutor in securing a just outcome for the victims and society as a whole.
International News
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International News
US Based Nigerian Body Builder Michael Chidozie Shot Dead By Wife
HOUSTON, Texas | A woman (Keaiirra Shavoiyae Chidozie) is accused of shooting her husband several times during an argument in their apartment, once in the arm and again in the chest, according to court documents.
The Houston Police Department said officers responded to 2634 Yorktown Street at about 7:35 p.m. on Thursday and found a 26-year-old man shot in the bedroom.
He was taken to the hospital, where he was said to be in critical condition, according to police.
Detectives said that Chidozie and her husband were arguing when things escalated. Officers said her husband followed her into the bedroom and continued to argue before Chidozie grabbed a pistol and allegedly fired multiple shots in fear for her safety.
Police said they found Chidozie and their two children in a parking lot, where she was arrested.
The couple’s children are being cared for by a family member, according to police.
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The family of the late US-based Nigerian bodybuilder, Michael Chidozie has launched a GoFundMe account to raise $70,000 to bring his body to Nigeria for burial.
However, Ashley C who launched a GoFundMe account noted that it was always his dream to return to Nigeria one day and that they were committed to honouring his memory by fulfilling this final wish.
Ashley explained that the family was faced with the daunting task of laying Chidozie to rest in his homeland of Nigeria as well as legal matters that had arisen as a result of his untimely death.
Ashley said the expenses associated with repatriating Chidozie’s remains to Nigeria and organizing a proper funeral service exceed what his lone family member in the United States can manage alone.
Ashley’s message reads, “Dear Friends, Family, and Community, it is with heavy hearts that we come to you today to share the tragic news of the untimely passing of our beloved Chidozie Michael. On March 21st, 2024, Chidozie’s life was abruptly taken from us in a senseless act of violence.
“He was shot four times, sustaining a devastating spinal injury during an argument with his Houston native wife, Keaiirra Shavoiyae, in their own home. The presence of their two young sons, aged 3 and 2, during this horrifying incident has only added to the heartbreak of this situation.
“Chidozie fought courageously for his life, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of April 9th, 2024. His passing has left a profound void in the lives of all who knew and loved him. He was a devoted father, a cherished son, and a dear friend to many. Chidozie’s kind heart, infectious laughter, and unwavering love for his family will forever be remembered and cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
“As we navigate through this unimaginable loss, we are faced with the daunting task of laying Chidozie to rest in his homeland of Nigeria as well as legal matters that have risen as a result of this untimely passing. It was always his dream to return to Nigeria one day, and we are committed to honoring his memory by fulfilling this final wish.
“However, the expenses associated with repatriating Chidozie’s remains to Nigeria and organizing a proper funeral service exceed what his lone family member here in the United States can manage alone. Therefore, we are reaching out to our community, friends, and anyone touched by Chidozie’s story for support.
“Your generous contributions will directly contribute to covering the costs of transporting Chidozie’s body to Nigeria, arranging a dignified funeral service, legal services needed and providing support to his grieving family during this incredibly difficult time.
“We understand that times are tough for many, but no donation is too small. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, will make a significant difference in honoring Chidozie’s memory and providing closure for his loved ones.
“Let us come together as a community to give Chidozie the farewell he deserves and ensure that his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.”
“Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and unwavering support during this incredibly challenging time,” it adds.ZIMETRO
Business News
Zim, Rwanda explore new areas of cooperation
The 3rd Rwanda-Zimbabwe Business Forum, which opened yesterday in Kigali, marks another significant milestone under the economic diplomacy as the Second Republic gears up efforts to unlock economic opportunities in Africa.
The high-level event, co-organised by ZimTrade and the Rwanda Development Board, brings together businesses, policymakers, and stakeholders from both countries to explore new avenues for collaboration and investment.
Head of Zimbabwean delegation to the forum, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Deputy Minister Sheillah Chikomo, said the programme provides practical solutions to explore in deepening cooperation between the two countries.
“This business forum will offer both countries an opportunity to forge new partnerships and attract foreign investment.
“The following few days will see us exploring more opportunities to delve deeper into practical actions that can be taken in various areas of cooperation including Government and private sector,” she said.
Deputy Minister Chikomo also indicated the importance of the previous programme in promoting exports and meeting national export growth targets.
“In 2023 we achieved US$7.6 billion in exports of goods and services which was 5,2 percent above the targeted US$7.22 billion.
“The increase in exports between Zimbabwe and Rwanda since the beginning of our coordinated efforts in 2021 also contributed to this growth.
“Zimbabwe’s ability to surpass the targeted export figures is a reflection that goes to show how initiatives such as this one can boost trade,” said Deputy Minister Chikomo.
Rwanda Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr Vincent Biruta, said the business forum represents the deepening relations between Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
“Your presence here today signifies the deepening of our bilateral relations and the commitment to foster greater economic cooperation between our two nations. In recent years, we have witnessed a notable increase in economic collaboration between Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
“We must seize the occasion this forum presents to foster strategic economic partnerships that will benefit our respective people,” he said.
Mr Biruta also said it is important for the two countries to leverage on areas they enjoy competitive advantages.
“Rwanda and Zimbabwe share a common will for inclusive growth, sustainable development, and entrepreneurship.
“By working together we can unlock new opportunities, accelerate investment flows, and create an environment for businesses to thrive.
“As we navigate a complex global landscape, it is essential to identify and capitalise on emerging trends and market dynamics.
“Rwanda and Zimbabwe, with their unique strengths and capabilities, have much to offer the world. Leveraging our respective comparative advantages, we can create a cycle of growth and prosperity that benefits both nations”, said Mr Biruta. ZimTrade CEO, Allan Majuru said Rwanda presents several opportunities for Zimbabwean businesses and urged companies to take full advantage of business linkages platforms available during the Forum.
Source: Herald