Providence Moyo
A 16-year-old boy, Keith Mhlambeni, was found dead at his home in Mabutweni, Bulawayo, on Thursday, prompting a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed receiving a sudden death report.
According to police, the incident followed a disagreement on Wednesday after Keith’s 71-year-old grandmother, who had just arrived from South Africa, informed him and his 18-year-old brother that they would be travelling with her to their rural home in Mbembesi for farming. Keith reportedly refused.
The next morning, a 16-year-old cousin went to wake him and found him unresponsive. Police said traces of vomit stained with blood were observed, raising suspicion of possible poisoning.
“We urge young people to value their lives and to speak out whenever they feel stressed, pressured or misunderstood. Taking one’s life does not solve anything; it only brings pain and stress to those left behind,” said Inspector Msebele Nomalanga, Bulawayo Province Press and Public Relations Officer.
Keith’s body was taken to Mpilo Hospital for a post-mortem to determine the exact cause of death. Police are appealing to anyone with information to come forward.
Family members and the Mabutweni community are mourning the teenager, with support being offered to those affected.
