'Thirst' lands drunk in court

2008-07-03 21:10

Thabisile Khoza

Carolina - A "thirsty" Mpumalanga man has been arrested for beating a friend who refused to buy him a drink.

The 22-year-old is scheduled to appear in the Carolina Magistrate's Court on Friday for hospitalising a friend who refused to pay for his drinks.

Carolina police spokesperson Kedibone Mahloko said on Thursday that the unnamed man allegedly spent all his own money during a lengthy drinking binge at the local the Skotela tavern on Wednesday night.

After running out of money, he spotted a friend and accused him of owing money.

"The drunken man claimed that his friend owed him money, and should therefore immediately start buying him drinks.

"When the friend refused, claiming he didn't have cash on him, the drunkard lost his temper and severely assaulted the surprised man," said Mahloko.

Tavern patrons eventually separated the two men, at which time the friend had suffered injuries to his face and torso. He was briefly treated for his injuries at a local hospital.

"We don't know now much, if any, money the victim actually owed.

"Even if there was a debt, there is no excuse for assault," said Mahloko.

- African Eye