A 52-year-old woman from Chegutu has been arrested in connection with the horrifying death of her four-year-old granddaughter, in what police believe to be a ritualistic murder.
The accused, Veronica Mudzipuri, was taken into custody on August 26, 2025, after investigations linked her to the death of young Tawanayasha Kadhene in Shurugwi, located in the Midlands Province.
In a statement from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), authorities allege that Mudzipuri, an artisanal miner by profession, poisoned the child by putting a maize pesticide tablet into her maheu, a traditional fermented drink. The girl is said to have died shortly after consuming the tainted beverage.
Following the poisoning, Mudzipuri reportedly cut tissue from the child’s face, which she allegedly combined with herbs given to her by a traditional healer. She then cooked and consumed the mixture, in what is believed to have been part of a ritualistic act.
“The suspect is accused of poisoning the minor and later disfiguring the body in a suspected ritual killing,” said the ZRP. “Investigations into the case are ongoing.”
Mudzipuri was arrested in Chegutu and is expected to face murder charges. Police have not released information about the traditional healer involved, and it remains unclear whether further arrests are expected.
The case has sent shockwaves through both Shurugwi and Chegutu communities, with widespread condemnation and renewed calls for stricter enforcement against ritualistic crimes, especially those involving minors.
Law enforcement has appealed to the public to report any suspicious activities that may endanger children, and warned against participating in harmful traditional practices under the guise of seeking wealth or spiritual power.
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