Victoria Falls Boy (9) Commits Suicide After Dispute Over Lunch Box

A Grade 4 pupil from Victoria Falls has reportedly taken his own life following a domestic dispute with his grandmother over a lunch box.

The boy, identified as Nyasha Rukobo, was found hanging from a Jatropha tree near his home last week.

According to family members, the incident was triggered by an argument after Nyasha’s grandmother allowed his younger brother to use his lunch box, fearing he would lose it. The younger sibling later misplaced the lunch box, prompting Nyasha to assault him.

When the grandmother tried to stop the altercation, Nyasha stormed out of the house. His body was later discovered hanging from a tree.

His father, Adore Rukobo, described his son as a “brilliant boy” who consistently excelled at school.

“We lost a brilliant boy who was always the top student in his class. The misunderstanding with his grandmother escalated, and after being threatened with punishment and denial of food, he became angry and left home,” he said.

Nyasha’s body was transported to Rukovo Village in Mberengwa for burial.

The funeral was conducted in accordance with local customs surrounding suicide cases, the ceremony was held outside the homestead, doors were locked to ward off spirits, and mourners were not allowed to bathe during the proceedings.

Police have not yet issued an official comment on the incident.