Bulawayo bouncer denies assault charge as trial continues

A well-known Bulawayo nightclub bouncer, Tinashe Marima—popularly known as Mhofu—has denied allegations that he assaulted a 49-year-old man during an incident at Queenspark West shops last year.

Marima appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Mr Themba Chimiso alongside his co-accused, Leo Zulu, where both pleaded not guilty to an assault charge. The matter was adjourned to 27 January for continuation of trial.

Giving his version of events, Marima told the court that he acted as a peacemaker rather than an aggressor. He said the complainant, Mr Johnson Gumbochuma, was engaged in a heated confrontation with an unidentified man, prompting him to intervene to prevent violence.

“I restrained the stranger who was visibly angry and intended to beat the complainant. I did not assault Mr Gumbochuma,” Marima testified.

Zulu also distanced himself from the alleged assault, stating that he was not directly involved when the incident occurred.
“I was a few metres away and did not trip or assault anyone,” he told the court.

However, the State presented a different account. Prosecutor Mr Samuel Mpofu alleged that Marima initiated the attack by slapping the complainant before Zulu joined in, causing Gumbochuma to fall to the ground.

According to the prosecution, Marima allegedly went on to assault the complainant using fists and open hands, kicking him on the ribs and right shoulder, while Zulu is accused of also punching and kicking the complainant multiple times.

The incident is said to have occurred on 24 August 2025. Gumbochuma later reported the matter to the police and was referred to hospital for treatment. The State indicated that a medical report will be produced as part of the evidence.

The court will hear further testimony when the trial resumes later this month.