Chegutu Woman Arrested for Allegedly Killing Granddaughter in Suspected Ritual Murder

Police have arrested a 52-year-old woman from Chegutu in connection with the gruesome murder of her four-year-old granddaughter in what authorities suspect to be a ritual killing.

The suspect, identified as Veronica Mudzipuri, was apprehended on August 26, 2025, following investigations linking her to the death of young Tawanayasha Kadhene in Shurugwi, Midlands Province.

According to a statement issued by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), Mudzipuri—who works as an artisanal miner—allegedly laced the child’s maheu (a traditional fermented drink) with a maize pesticide tablet. The child is believed to have died shortly after ingesting the contaminated beverage.

Authorities say that following the poisoning, the suspect proceeded to cut flesh from the child’s cheek, which she reportedly mixed with herbs prescribed by a traditional healer (sangoma), cooked the mixture, and consumed it as part of a suspected ritual practice.

“The suspect allegedly poisoned the victim using a maize pesticide tablet and went on to mutilate the body for suspected ritualistic purposes,” ZRP said. “Investigations are ongoing.”

Mudzipuri was taken into custody in Chegutu and is expected to be charged with murder. The police have not disclosed the identity of the sangoma involved, and it is unclear whether any additional suspects are being pursued.

The shocking incident has sparked outrage among residents in both Shurugwi and Chegutu, with many calling for justice and tougher measures against ritual-related crimes involving children.

The ZRP urged the public to report suspicious activities involving children and warned against the use of harmful traditional practices.