BY ZINHLE DLAMINI (INTERN)
MBABANE— Two separate violent incidents that could have ended in tragedy have instead underscored a powerful outcome, both victims survived, offering a moment of relief amid ongoing police investigations.
Police in Big Bend have launched an attempted murder investigation after a 35-year-old businessman reported that he came under gunfire while driving along the Maloma,St Philips gravel road on the evening of 1 May 2026. According to information shared on the Royal Eswatini Police Service social media page, the victim stated that he “was shot at once while driving,” but the bullet missed its mark. He escaped unharmed.
The businessman had been travelling from Ndunayithini, where he operates shops, when the attack occurred. Investigators believe the incident may have been a failed robbery attempt. The fact that the victim survived without injury has brought a measure of comfort to the community, even as authorities intensify efforts to identify the assailant.
In a separate case, Mankayane police have opened another attempted murder docket following a stabbing incident reported in the early hours of 2 May 2026. A 23-year-old man from Ngwempisane told police that he was attacked at a local bar and “stabbed once on the head with a sharp object by an unknown person.” Despite the severity of the assault, he survived the ordeal.
Emergency responders attended to the victim, and he is expected to recover. Police have confirmed that investigations into both cases are ongoing.
These incidents highlight both the persistence of violent crime and the critical importance of swift reporting and response. They also bring into focus a different narrative, one where lives are spared, and victims are given a second chance.
Authorities continue to appeal to members of the public for any information that may assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice. Meanwhile, communities in both Big Bend and Mankayane have expressed relief that, despite the danger, neither incident resulted in loss of life.
The police have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring public safety and pursuing all leads in these cases.
#EswatiniNews #CrimeWatchSZ #CommunitySafetyFirst #SurvivorStories
(Courtesy Pic)
