Father, son jailed 18 months for assault over refusal to buy beer for a man

A 55-year-old farmer, Christopher Mafuleka, and his 24-year-old son, Clinton, have been sentenced to 18 months in prison for assaulting a man who refused to buy them beer.

The incident occurred on July 2, 2024, in Lusaka’s Chikumbi area when the duo attacked 42-year-old farmer Robby Mtonga, leaving him with a broken arm, a swollen eye, and severe body pain.

According to court testimony, Mtonga was on his way to visit a friend when Christopher approached him, asking him to buy beer.

After Mtonga explained he didn’t have money, Christopher became agitated.

As Mtonga tried to leave, Clinton accused him of arguing with his father and began assaulting him.

Christopher then joined the attack, striking Mtonga with a stick.

Neighbors eventually rescued Mtonga, who testified in court that he was ambushed without provocation.

“I was simply walking past when they attacked me. Christopher hit me with a stick, and his son punched me until I couldn’t defend myself,” Mtonga said.

The arresting officer confirmed the severity of Mtonga’s injuries, supported by a medical report presented in court.

In their defense, Christopher claimed Mtonga had attacked him first, and his son acted in self-defense. However, Magistrate Keegan Litiya dismissed these claims, stating there was no evidence to support them.

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“The defense is an attempt to avoid responsibility,” Litiya ruled. “The evidence against the accused is clear, and I find them both guilty of assault.”

Despite Christopher pleading for leniency, citing his role as a church priest and family provider, the magistrate emphasized the gravity of the offense.

“This crime is serious and far too common. Society looks to the courts to deter such violent behavior,” Litiya said.

Clinton, who pleaded guilty during the initial plea, had already begun serving the sentence.

Both men will now serve the remainder of their 18-month imprisonment for the brutal attack.

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