Matebeleland Pulse Reporter
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested three suspects in connection with the alleged murder of a four-year-old girl, Sabina Maziva, in Mandinyenya Village, Bikita, Masvingo Province.
In a statement yesterday, ZRP National Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest of Violet Gamera (60), Chamunorwa Kwanga (60), and Regina Tavengerarwei (30) following the death of the minor, which is suspected to have resulted from poisoning.
According to police investigations, the incident occurred on 1 October 2025 when Gamera allegedly gave the victim poisoned rice as an act of revenge against the child’s parents, whose goats had reportedly destroyed her crops. The child later fell ill and was taken to a local clinic for treatment. Despite receiving medical attention, her condition worsened, and she died on 5 October 2025.
Commissioner Nyathi said the child was buried on 8 October 2025, but suspicions of foul play emerged during the burial. “During the burial, it emerged that the child may have been poisoned, prompting the community to refer the matter to Chief Ziki on 10 October 2025,” said Commissioner Nyathi. “The Chief then instructed the victim’s mother to report the matter to the Zimbabwe Republic Police.”
Following the report, police investigations led to the arrest of the three suspects. Gamera is alleged to have implicated Kwanga as the person who advised her to poison the child, while Tavengerarwei was reportedly identified as the supplier of the poison.
“The Police have since recovered rat poison and a liquid substance suspected to be a cotton pesticide, believed to have been used in the commission of the offense,” Commissioner Nyathi said.
He added that the victim’s body has been exhumed and taken to Silveira Mission Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination.
Commissioner Nyathi strongly condemned the act, saying the police are deeply concerned about cases of violence and cruelty, particularly against children. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police strongly condemns criminal acts and cruelty in society, especially those that endanger the lives of innocent children,” he said. “We urge members of the public to resolve disputes through lawful and peaceful means.”
