*_MORNING NEWS | 12 JUNE 2025_* *_Join our Group:_* https://chat.whatsapp.com/LDUL4HF8Hyo4MaUUiGXvKz *TO ADVERTISE WITH WAZO ADVERTS* *_WhatsApp:_* wa.me/263776804293 *_We have a market reach of over 400,000 Zimbabweans._* — — — — — — — — — — — — *1.* Tagwirei hails Mnangagwa’s ‘humility’ and US$40 million farm fortune, says critics will die poor *2.* 'There is too much corruption in Zimbabwe' – says former MP *3.* Legislator calls for ministerial statement on UZ lecturers' strike *4.* Political will key in fighting drug and substance abuse *5.* ‘Protect Gukurahundi victims during public hearings’ *6.* Government orders Harare to pay Chiyangwa’s Pinnacle *7.* 2027 is too late – CNRG urges government to immediately ban export of lithium concentrates *8.* Cabinet accedes to ratification of Convention on Child Protection *9.* Holy Ten’s silence leaves social media wondering what’s happening with the artist *10.* I earn just US$500 a month, says gospel singer Sabastian Magacha *11.* Grandmother (aged 84), jailed for sexually abusing autistic teen (aged 17) *12.* Details emerge about how a cop used a hoe handle to bash suspect *13.* Gruesome murder shocks village – Boy (aged 9) ripped apart *14.* 2 student nurses use fake O-Level certificates to enrol at Chitungwiza Hospital *15.* Mother and her 2 kids found dead in their bedroom *16.* Budiriro baby found: 11-month-old reunited with family after alleged kidnapping by “Chihera” *_FULL ARTICLES BELOW_* _[Note: These News Articles were Compiled and Distributed by Wazo Adverts. Source is Credited at the End of Each Article.]_ 1. *TAGWIREI HAILS MNANGAGWA’S ‘HUMILITY’ AND US$40 MILLION FARM FORTUNE, SAYS CRITICS WILL DIE POOR* Prominent businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei has made a series of public statements praising President Emmerson Mnangagwa, highlighting what he described as the President’s humility and significant influence, sensationally adding that those who “do not do what he says” will “die poor.” These remarks come as Tagwirei himself has risen to considerable prominence in the business sector during the Mnangagwa administration. Speaking to youths at the United Family International Church (UFIC), Tagwirei claimed that Mnangagwa lived in a modest two-bedroomed cottage at State House for five years, from 2018 to 2023. “The President (Mnangagwa) stayed in a two-bedroomed cottage at State House from 2018-2023 because he is a humble man. He has not taken anything,” Tagwirei stated. “Anyone who is a President would never have stayed in such a house. Even those who want to be Presidents would never stay in such a house. So, when we talk about this man, most likely we don’t know what we are talking about.” More recently, while addressing members of the Zion Christian Church (ZCC), Tagwirei castigated Mnangagwa’s critics, saying they are “lost”. “I see others insulting Mnangagwa. You’re lost. Because the blessings of this country come from his mouth. If you do not do what he says, you die poor,” Tagwirei told the congregation. Prominent lawyer Advocate Thabani Mpofu who is a member of Tagwirei’s Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) church hit back on X, writing “I have two comments to make. 1. This abuse of the church must stop. 2. This clueless brother must just shut up.” Tagwirei also offered insights into Mnangagwa’s personal wealth, specifically citing his agricultural ventures. According to the prominent petroleum tycoon, Mnangagwa earns a gross income of US$11 million per year from Precabe Farm, translating to a US$4 million profit. This, Tagwirei stated, contributes to a net worth of US$40 million solely from the farm. He added that the President’s 400-hectare farm in Kwekwe houses 3,000 cattle. Through the help of Mnangagwa, Tagwirei has reportedly benefitted millions from government tenders. In 2024, the United States terminated a Zimbabwe sanctions program and reimposed curbs on nine people and three entities, including Mnangagwa and Tagwirei, accusing them of being involved in corruption and human rights abuses. “He (Tagwirei) has provided high-value gifts to senior members of the Government of Zimbabwe to gain access to resources and exerts significant control over major sectors of Zimbabwe’s economy,” the US government stated. “Tagwirei is designated pursuant to E.O. 13818 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of corruption, and the transfer or the facilitation of the transfer of proceeds of corruption.” *_-Nehanda Radio_* 2. *'THERE IS TOO MUCH CORRUPTION IN ZIMBABWE' – SAYS FORMER MP* Former Mt Pleasant legislator, Fadzayi Mahere has criticized Information Permanent Secretary Nick Mangwana for attempting to portray the International Monetary Fund (IMF)'s observations on widespread corruption and the limited acceptance of the ZiG currency as an endorsement of Zimbabwe's economic progress. Mahere dismissed this as a disingenuous spin doctoring tactic. An IMF delegation, led by Mission Chief Wojciech Maliszewski, is currently in Zimbabwe for the Article IV Consultation, which provides an opportunity to review the country's economic policies and progress under the IMF's regular assessment framework. This week's review follows an earlier visit in January this year. It is widely considered a critical juncture for Zimbabwe's reform agenda. While the Staff Monitored Programme (SMP) does not provide funding, its successful implementation is a prerequisite for future access to concessional financing, potential debt restructuring, and the restoration of confidence among international creditors and investors-all of which Zimbabwe desperately needs. The southern African nation is burdened with a burgeoning public debt that has now exceeded US$21 billion, including more than US$12.3 billion owed to external creditors. Following the visit, IMF Mission Chief Maliszewski said the IMF would like to see a fully functioning local ZiG currency and fiscal discipline with a balance between expenditure and revenue. He also addressed the issue of corruption and stressed the need for a genuine currency exchange market, as well as a credible debt restructuring process. In an attempt to put a positive spin on this, Mangwana posted on his X account his own interpretation of the IMF's comments. "The IMF sees macroeconomic stability in Zimbabwe- we see it too. They want to see the ZiG becoming fully our national currency - we want that too. They see the ZiG stability-we are witnesses." However, Mahere, who is also a constitutional lawyer, strongly disagreed with Mangwana's sentiments. "Did you listen carefully to what the IMF representative is actually saying? These are the key takeaways: This Govt has no fiscal discipline. Fiscal discipline is urgently required. The public financial management system is worrisome. Read "there's too much corruption." "The people need reassurance that the so-called reforms introduced will stay. Read "there's no trust or public confidence in what the Govt says about the state of the economy." "The ZiG is not yet a national currency. While it may look stable, it is not widely used. The official exchange rate is artificial as demonstrated by the existence of a parallel market rate. The fact that the two don't converge is problematic. You can rig an election but you cannot rig the economy," Mahere wrote on her X account in response to Mangwana. Fourteen months after its introduction, the ZiG currency is still failing to facilitate payments for essential services such as passport issuance, fuel, and other necessities, indicating its shortcomings. The private sector, particularly Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), does not accept ZiG as a form of payment in its daily transactions, leaving many, especially civil servants, searching for US dollars on the parallel market, where the exchange rate is US$1: ZiG40, even though the Treasury has set the official exchange rate at US$1: ZiG27. *_-NewZimbabwe_* 3. *LEGISLATOR CALLS FOR MINISTERIAL STATEMENT ON UZ LECTURERS' STRIKE* Parliament has intervened in the ongoing University of Zimbabwe (UZ) lecturers' industrial action, which has now clocked its 59 day without a resolution in sight. A legislator this Tuesday called upon the Higher and Tertiary Education Minister (Fredrick Shava) to urgently deliver a ministerial statement on the strike to the National Assembly. On a point of interest, Mpopoma-Mzilikazi MP Charles Moyo requested through the Speaker, Jacob Mudenda, to have the crisis resolved. "Students and lecturers are not attending lectures. The newly recruited adjunct lecturers drawn from the streets are also not attending lectures. Dissertations are not being supervised, and exams are not being written. "There were demonstrations from the lecturers, yet other students are to go for work-related learning. It seems this semester is a sheer waste of time to students as well as a loss of parents' hard-earned money," Moyo said. Further, the MP expressed concern over the chaos at the learning institution. "There is chaos and uncertainty at our institution. If it pleases you, Hon. Speaker Sir, I request the Hon. Minister of Higher Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, to come and give us a ministerial statement on the negotiations, deadlocks, or practical police intervention to bring normalcy to our tertiary institution," Moyo added. The Speaker responded, "We will advise the Hon. Minister if he can make a Ministerial Statement on the situation." UZ lecturers are demanding a return to their pre-2018 salaries, where a junior lecturer earned US$2,250 per month. Currently, they earn approximately US$230. *_-NewZimbabwe_* 4. *POLITICAL WILL KEY IN FIGHTING DRUG AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE* The fight against drug and substance abuse got more teeth last week after the government amended legislation to ban two illicit brews it deemed harmful to public health. Statutory Instrument (SI) 62 of 2025, gazetted last week, amended the Harmful Liquids Act [Chapter 9:10] by adding Kambwa and Musombodhiya to the list of banned substances. “The schedule to the Act is amended by the insertion after item 9 (“Nipa”) of the following item — “10. Any unregulated, unauthorised or illegally produced alcoholic beverage containing ethanol, colloquially referred to by such names as Kambwa, Musombodhiya or by any other name whatsoever,” the SI read. This means 11 liquids have been declared harmful. These are Skokiaan, Barberton, Qilika, Isityimiyana, Hopana, Qediviki, Uhali, Kachasu, Nipa, Kambwa and Musombodhiya. The outlawing of Kambwa and Musombodhiya was long overdue given their effect on public health. The two illicit brews have flooded the market, raising fears about the supplier amid allegations that senior government officials are involved. Government appeared to be fighting a losing war against drug and substance abuse and the banning of the two illicit brews brings the campaign back on track. The country is battling drug and substance abuse, with the government rolling out a national campaign against the vice. Information minister Jenfan Muswere told journalists during post-Cabinet briefing recently that national drug and substance abuse campaigns are ongoing and that the completed 79 awareness sessions reached out to over 165 000 youths. Drug and substance abuse have become symptoms of the problem. Problems emanating from the deteriorating economic environment have led to job losses. Students churned out by universities and colleges have nowhere to go as companies are not recruiting, citing a tough economic environment. Added to that, there is an increase in the number of school dropouts. Angeline Gata, Primary and Secondary Education deputy minister, last month told Parliament that about 50 000 learners dropped out of school last year, with poverty and pregnancies as major causes. Of the learners, 15 809 dropped out of primary school, while 33 746 dropped out of secondary school. These dropouts are fodder for drug and substance abuse. They will have nothing to do other than engaging in drug and substance abuse to “escape the vagaries of life”. However, this is akin to worsening the problem. There is a need for a holistic approach in dealing with the scourge; otherwise, we will continue shooting in the dark. First, the government must address the challenges afflicting the economy, which has resulted in few opportunities to absorb thousands of graduates churned out by universities and colleges each year. Second, the government must go beyond threats and arrest drug lords who appear untouchable. The police have arrested the small fish, leaving the barons who supply the market. Third, we need to tighten the country’s ports of entry so that harmful substances do not enter the country. Lastly, there is a need for political will to arrest the perpetrators regardless of their position in government or political parties. This signals the government's seriousness in fighting the scourge. The future generation is under threat. *_-Newsday_* 5. *‘PROTECT GUKURAHUNDI VICTIMS DURING PUBLIC HEARINGS’* Government has been urged to protect victims and survivors of Gukurahundi when they give testimonies during public hearings to ensure the programme is credible and culminates in genuine healing and reconciliation. The call was made by the Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) in response to reports that ordinary people, including victims, are barred from recording discussions during the hearings. President Emmerson Mnangagwa appointed chiefs to lead the public hearings to address the emotive issue, which remains a dark chapter in the country’s history. MRP leader Mqondisi Moyo said stopping attendees from recording proceedings created an atmosphere of fear as it suppressed the free exchange of ideas and manipulate the narrative. He said this was in contravention of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, which guaranteed the right to freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions without interference, to receive and impart ideas and information without interference. “The restrictions imposed by the chiefs constitute a clear infringement of these fundamental rights, undermining the rule of law and the principles of justice,” Moyo said in a statement. “In this context, it is pertinent to emphasise that the protection of constitutional rights is essential to ensuring the integrity of any process purporting to address historical injustices or promote reconciliation. “The blatant disregard for these rights demonstrated by the chiefs' actions raises serious concerns about the legitimacy and fairness of the proceedings.” Moyo cited the United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (1948), which emphasises the importance of protecting the rights of victims and holding perpetrators accountable. “The current chiefs' court settings are a far cry of this standard, instead it serves as a mechanism to further traumatise and silence victims,” he said. “By restricting victims' ability to express themselves freely, these hearings are doomed to fail in their purported objective of promoting healing and reconciliation.” Moyo’s statement is copied to the Southern African Development Community, African Union, United Nations and other international stakeholders. *_-Southern Eye_* 6. *GOVERNMENT ORDERS HARARE TO PAY CHIYANGWA’S PINNACLE* Government has ordered the City of Harare to compensate Pinnacle Holdings, a company owned by business and property mogul Phillip Chiyangwa, for the land he lost in the capital. In a letter addressed to Harare mayor Jacob Mafume, Local Government and Public Works minister Daniel Garwe said council should compensate Pinnacle Property Holdings with council land. He cited several confrontations between Town House and Pinnacle Property Holdings while responding to Mafume’s letter dated May 23 this year. Garwe referenced earlier minutes dated December 17, 2024, and May 8 this year. “As you are aware and highlighted in the above postcode in the previous discussion, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works signed a compensation agreement with Pinnacle Holdings for his land in Harare South and Warren Park,” the minister said. Mafume said the directive must be followed. “The relationship of Pinnacle Property Holdings and this council is not new. At some point, we had an agreement in the memorandum of understatement signed with Pinnacle, ourselves, the Local Government minister and Pinnacle over Stone Ridge Properties. The Stone Ridge Properties, as we know, part of them belong to Pinnacle and they have been occupied. “Pinnacle has been engaged in legal disputes between us, the government and the Supreme Court, which could lead, maybe, to the eviction of people at that place if the interpretation of the law is taken to the letter. But the route that has been taken by Pinnacle is to negotiate with council. The first attempt at our negotiation was abortive. "Among the properties identified for compensation by claimants, there are properties that are owned by the City of Harare. Below is the list of properties.” Councillor Denford Ngadziore said the land issue must be dealt according to procedure. “If we are to do this land transfer, we cannot sit as council and agree to things without following the right path; we love to stick to the Constitution, not just agree,” he said. “We are not going to hand over land without doing the land evaluation process, because what if we give someone property that is not equivalent to the space of his land?” Meanwhile, addressing a full council meeting yesterday, Mafume said Harare would co-operate with the Local Government ministry to the benefit of residents in the capital. “As Harare City Council, we will co-operate with the government for the benefit of the residents and we have had problems with refuse collection for a long time in Harare,” he said. “As council, we have no capacity for refuse collection, but our government has said it will help us, and we are happy.” Mafume applauded the government for completing the Trababalas Interchange, formerly known as the Mbudzi Roundabout. He said the government would construct 10 other interchanges in the capital. *_-Newsday_* 7. *2027 IS TOO LATE – CNRG URGES GOVERNMENT TO IMMEDIATELY BAN EXPORT OF LITHIUM CONCENTRATES* The Centre for Natural Resources Governance (CNRG) has implored the government to take immediate action and ban the exportation of lithium concentrate, rather than waiting until 2027 to implement the proposed policy. This follows the government's announcement yesterday that lithium concentrate exports will be banned from January 2027. In a statement issued on Wednesday, CNRG stressed the importance of prompt action, arguing that delaying the ban would only provide smugglers with further opportunities to plunder the country's natural resources without facing any repercussions. "As CNRG, we view this urgent reform as being delayed into irrelevance. We stress that the ban should be implemented immediately to prevent further depletion of our natural capital due to unchecked lithium exploitation, which has devastating socio-economic and environmental implications," CNRG stated. The organisation further urged the government to address the issue of porous borders, which have allowed some lithium to be smuggled into South Africa and Mozambique without any benefit to Zimbabwe "Zimbabwe's lithium wealth risks being squandered, as unchecked exports, weak regulation, and opaque deals undermine its potential for industrial transformation." "Already, allegations of lithium smuggling across porous borders into South Africa and Mozambique raise concerns regarding corruption and illicit mineral and financial flows. "Unverified reports indicate that up to 3,000 tons of lithium ore leave the country daily-a staggering total of 1.62 million tons over the past 18 months-with minimal accountability, little benefit to the state, and no protection for affected communities." During a post-cabinet media briefing in Harare yesterday, Mines Minister Winston Chitando said the government will ban the exportation of lithium ore as part of an effort to promote value addition and ensure that the country comprehensively benefits from its natural resources. "Cabinet reaffirmed the ban on the export of chrome ores and stressed the need to develop the ferrochrome industry locally. The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development will strengthen the implementation of the 'use it or lose it' principle, and holders of all unutilised mining titles, particularly chrome, are requested to take note of the Government's position," Chitando said. He added that Bikita Minerals and Arcadia Lithium are in the process of establishing lithium sulphate value addition facilities to beneficiate locally produced lithium ores. From January 2027 onwards, the export of lithium concentrate will no longer be permitted. Lithium plays a crucial role in the clean energy transition due to its essential function in energy storage. It is a key component in lithium-ion batteries, which power electric vehicles (EVs) and facilitate large-scale energy storage systems for renewable energy sources. *_-NewZimbabwe_* 8. *CABINET ACCEDES TO RATIFICATION OF CONVENTION ON CHILD PROTECTION* Cabinet has approved the ratification of the Convention on Protection of Children and Cooperation in respect of inter-country adoption. The Convention, adopted on May 29, 1993, in The Hague, The Netherlands, seeks to create a collaborative framework for countries to prevent the abduction, sale or trafficking of children. It acknowledges inter-country adoption as a viable solution for providing permanent homes to children who cannot find suitable families in their countries of origin. Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said ratifying the convention will not only solidify Zimbabwe’s dedication to international child protection standards but also foster collaboration with the global community in addressing challenges faced by vulnerable children. “Cabinet approved that the Parliament of Zimbabwe should ratify the Convention on Protection of Children and Cooperation in respect of Inter-Country Adoption, which was adopted on May 29, 1993, in The Hague, The Netherlands,” said Dr Muswere. “The Convention focuses on the need for countries to work together to prevent the abduction, sale, or trafficking of children, and recognises inter-country adoption as a means of offering the advantage of a permanent home to a child when a suitable family has not been found in the child’s country of origin. “The ratification will further entrench Zimbabwe’s collaboration with the rest of the international community in the domain of child protection.” In a related development, Cabinet has approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Federal Biological Agency of Russia and Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Health and Child Care. This agreement seeks to enhance cooperation in healthcare and medical science, focusing on equitable and mutually beneficial initiatives. The MoU aims to promote the education and advanced training of healthcare professionals, with specific activities planned around the prevention and treatment of childhood and infectious diseases. “Cabinet approved the above-stated Memorandum of Understanding, which seeks to encourage and promote equitable and mutually beneficial cooperation between the parties in healthcare and medical science,” said Dr Muswere. “The parties shall develop co-operation in education and advanced training of healthcare professionals through activities such as organisation of courses in prevention and treatment of childhood diseases, medical research, and prevention of infectious diseases, including through preventive vaccination.” *_-Herald_* 9. *HOLY TEN’S SILENCE LEAVES SOCIAL MEDIA WONDERING WHAT’S HAPPENING WITH THE ARTIST* Even in his silence, Holy Ten is producing the biggest sound trending on local social media circles. He is trending despite having disappeared from the local musical and social media scene, leaving fans puzzled and TikTok buzzing with theories about his whereabouts. Known for his bold livestreams, controversial takes and energy, Holy Ten has gone quiet online for weeks. His silence has sparked a social media frenzy, with countless users posting under the now-viral hashtag #whereisholyten. Once a mainstay on TikTok and Instagram Live, Holy Ten was frequently seen engaging in heated debates or even breaking into spontaneous freestyles. But now, fans are left with nothing but questions. “Mujaya aripi nhayi? We need our daily dose,” wrote one X user. “Social media is too quiet without Holy Ten’s noise,” commented another. The speculation has led many to believe the rapper might have checked into rehab or taken a step back for a personal reflection. One particularly viral comment reads, “Anodzoka riini kubva kuRehab?” But it has been his wife who has been grabbing the headlines after firing back with a sharp response that shut down the rumours and fueled the internet’s curiosity. “Ndakatomirira update kubva kwamuri imi makamuendesa.” Her reply quickly made the rounds on Facebook, X and TikTok, garnering reactions ranging from applause to laughter. Despite the absence of any official statement from Holy Ten’s camp, the rapper continues to trend across platforms. Memes, throwback videos and even parody skits have popped up under his name. “Imagine trending without posting a thing. Man is in silent mode but still the loudest in the room,” one fan observed. “Whether you love him or hate him, you can’t ignore him,” added another. While some suggest the break might be an intentional rebranding strategy or a mental reset, others are worried about his well-being, especially after a chaotic few months marked by online rants, feuds with fellow artists and cryptic Instagram posts. One music blogger noted: “Holy Ten might be taking a needed breather. The industry can chew you up fast, especially when you’re always in the spotlight.” A few fans have even started humorous “search parties,” posting fake “missing person” flyers using his images with captions like “Last seen roasting people in a Live video” or “If found, return to TikTok.” Whether the rapper is in rehab, recharging behind the scenes, or simply preparing his next move, one thing is clear — his influence hasn’t faded. Holy Ten’s ability to command attention, even in silence, speaks volumes about his impact on Zimbabwe’s pop culture landscape. As one top comment summed it up: “This guy trends when he talks, and now he’s trending for not talking. That’s crazy influence.” Fans are hoping for a return — whether through new music, a surprise live video, or even a cryptic post that stirs up the streets once more. Until then, the search for “Mujaya” continues. *_-H-Metro_* 10. *I EARN JUST US$500 A MONTH, SAYS GOSPEL SINGER SABASTIAN MAGACHA* Gospel music star, Sabastian Magacha says he earns about US$500 a month as an artist and the money he can afford to pay for the welfare of his six-year-old child is US$100 a month. Magacha has denied claims that he has not been taking responsibility for the welfare of his daughter. “I furnish the State that my monthly income is plus or minus US$500,” he said in his opposing affidavit. “I am not formally employed and I am a gospel artist. That is my source of income and I have no other source of income. “I have attached a detailed statement from the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association, where they pay each artist a yearly once-off payment for the songs played on air. “The net revenue from the ZIMURA was US$120 for 2024. “From my monthly income as stated, I have a wife, and we are blessed with two minor children. “I pay rentals in the sum of US$250 per month, food and groceries US$70. From my income, against my expenses, I can afford to contribute towards the maintenance of the minor child the sum of US$100 per month, which shall be inclusive.” Magacha argued that he had been taking care of his child up to last year and blamed the mother for refusing to accept his contributions. The relationship between the two ended when she was still two months pregnant. Magacha is blaming his child’s mother for being extravagant and the love to live a lavish lifestyle. “The respondent wants to live a flamboyant life and has always wanted to force it on me despite making it very clear to her from the onset that I cannot afford such flamboyance and I have always wanted to live within my means. “It is the common cause that maintenance of a minor child is the responsibility of both parents and each according to his or her own means. “In respect of the child’s school fees, I secured a place for her where the school fees payable is US$90 per term. “The school is very decent where I could afford. However, the applicant refused to enroll the child at the said school, opting for a private and very expensive school for US$800 per term. “I made it clear that I could not afford such fees but she remained adamant and proceeded to enroll the child at the expensive school. “She even refused to accept my contributions from April 2024. “At no time did I make a preference that the minor child stays at home and I have always wanted to contribute towards the maintenance of the child according to my means. “The problem is with the applicant who wants to live a lavish lifestyle which she also wants to force on the minor child,” he said. He added: “The applicant has deliberately failed to disclose her monthly income to assist the court in coming up with a just and equitable order. “This is so because the application is not bona fide. The applicant is gainfully employed and has deliberately failed to disclose her salary and income. “This is the reason why she has insisted on enrolling the minor child at an expensive school and refusing to accept my contribution towards the maintenance of the child, unlike myself, the applicant has no other children to look after save for the minor child in question.” *_-H-Metro_* 11. *GRANDMOTHER (AGED 84), JAILED FOR SEXUALLY ABUSING AUTISTIC TEEN (AGED 17)* An 84-year-old woman was yesterday jailed 15 years for sexually abusing a 17-year-old autistic student. In return, Erica Gurure of Mufakose would pay the boy amounts that ranged from US$10 to US$15 to buy his silence. She was found guilty after a full trial by Harare regional magistrate Letwin Rwodzi. Autistic people struggle to communicate and interact with other people. They even find it hard to understand how other people think or feel and can find things like bright lights or loud noises overwhelming, stressful or uncomfortable. The State, represented by Cecilia Mashingaidze, proved that sometime last year, Gurure met the boy on his way from school and asked him to accompany her to her house. Upon arrival, she took the boy into her bedroom and ordered him to lie down. She then forced herself on the boy and afterwards told him to go home and not to disclose the incident to anyone. Gurure would call the boy and ‘rape’ him on numerous occasions and would pay him various amounts from US$10 to US$50. The assault didn’t occur during the school holidays as the boy would visit his uncle. The court heard that on February 14, the boy went to school and on his way back he met Gurure who took him to her house where she abused him once again. Afterwards, she gave him US$10 and told him to go to the market where he bought two boxer shorts, a T-shirt and a pair of socks. He then boarded a kombi to Ruwa and got lost in the area. He was assisted by a Good Samaritan who took him to Ruwa Police Station where he was reunited with his uncle. *_-H-Metro_* 12. *DETAILS EMERGE ABOUT HOW A COP USED A HOE HANDLE TO BASH SUSPECT* Details have emerged about how a police officer, stationed at ZRP Ruwa, allegedly used a hoe handle to assault a suspect who ended up dying at a clinic. Prince Ndavambi, 39, was not asked to plead when he appeared before Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo yesterday The court heard that Ndavambi arrested the now deceased in connection with a case of assault and theft and took him to ZRP Ruwa. While at the police station, Ndavambi assaulted the now deceased with a hoe handle all over the body. He allegedly later detained him in the police cells. In the evening that day, the suspect’s condition deteriorated and he was taken to Ruwa Rehabilitation Clinic where he died the following day. Two post-mortem reports were conducted. The State didn’t oppose bail on the basis that the cause of death is yet to be ascertained. Ndavambi was released on US$300 bail. *_-H-Metro_* 13. *GRUESOME MURDER SHOCKS VILLAGE – BOY (AGED 9) RIPPED APART* The gruesome murder of a nine-year-old boy, whose stomach was ripped apart with a sharp instrument, possibly a knife, and was also stabbed in the neck while his private parts were missing, has sent shockwaves at a farm near Chinhoyi. Munyaradzi Shumba’s left hand was also severed during the savage attack. The incident happened at Chogi Farm, Inyathi, near Chinhoyi on Sunday. The boy was heading cattle when he was attacked and killed. Initial reports had suggested that the attack was provoked after the cattle, which Munyaradzi was heading, grazed a neighbour’s field. However, the brutal nature of the attack, and the missing body parts, mean that the police investigations will look beyond a case of a possible punishment which went badly wrong. Some of the villagers suspect that the case could be linked to some rituals. However, the true motive behind the gruesome murder will only be revealed after the police investigations are completed. What isn’t in dispute is that this shocking incident has shaken this usually quiet farm. Mashonaland West Provincial Police spokesperson, Inspector Ian Kohwera, told H- Metro the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) officers have arrested Lloyd Gwenhere, 32, in connection with the murder. Shumba’s mutilated body had severe injuries, including a ripped stomach, a neck which had been stabbed and a severed left hand. His private parts were also missing. Inspector Kohwera said Gwenhere was allegedly seen assaulting Munyaradzi. The incident occurred on Sunday. Earlier during the day, Munyaradzi helped his grandfather, Isaac Shumba (70), harvest some grains. He was then tasked with herding the cattle. At around 4pm, his sister Vongai, (29), was sent to find him and bring the cattle back home. When she returned, Vongai said she had only located the cattle. This sent panic within the family. When he did not return that evening, the villagers sent a search party to look for the missing boy. A neighbour, Tariro Kwangwari, informed the family that she had seen Gwenhere allegedly attacking Munyaradzi shortly before sunset. “They found only his rags and a pool of blood at the assault site. “The following morning, the search continued and Munyaradzi’s body was discovered hidden in the grass, which is about 15 metres from where he was attacked, leading to Gwenhere’s arrest,” said Kohwera. He said that investigations were in full swing to determine if this case was linked to any ritual issues. “Police in Mashonaland West are urging anyone with information related to the investigation to report to the nearest police station,” he said. This tragic incident highlights the increase in ritual murders, particularly of juveniles, in the area. *_-H-Metro_* 14. *2 STUDENT NURSES USE FAKE O-LEVEL CERTIFICATES TO ENROL AT CHITUNGWIZA HOSPITAL* Two student nurses enrolled for a nursing course at Chitungwiza Central Hospital using fake certificates. Paidamoyo Samantha Muchira and Makanaka Chatikobo applied for a nursing course using fake Ordinary Level certificates. The two attended the nursing course for a year before their fake certificates were exposed. Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the case appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of Paidamoyo and Makanaka. “Police are investigating a fraud case involving student nurses at a hospital. “Total value defrauded is yet to be supplied. “The accused persons were not arrested,” said Insp Chakanza. Chitungwiza Hospital Public Relations manager, Audrey Tasaranarwo, said the two were exposed through verification. “We had two students who supplied fake certificates. “The hospital discovered the fraudulent actafter verifying the certificates with ZIMSEC. “The certificates looked very genuine that those behind the printing must also be brought to book,” said Tasaranarwo. *_-H-Metro_* 15. *MOTHER AND HER 2 KIDS FOUND DEAD IN THEIR BEDROOM* Police are investigating a disturbing incident in which a mother and her two children were found dead in their house at Besa Village in Dema this week. Ruth Ruvarashe Chidume, 35, and her two children, Tatenda Precious Blessings Gumbo, 4, and Ira Makanakaishe Gumbo, 2, were found dead in their house. National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said: “The bodies of the victims were found in the bedroom at Besa Village, Dema, on June 9 (Monday). “Ruth Chidume was discovered hanging from a wooden beam with a nylon fabric tied around her neck, while the two infants were found blindfolded with plastic papers covering their heads and tied below the necks. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police is conducting comprehensive investigations to uncover the circumstances surrounding both cases and we appeal to anyone with information regarding these heinous crimes to contact the National Complaints Desk on 0242 703631 or Whatsapp 0712800197 or report at any nearest police station,” said Comm Nyathi. Meanwhile, A 67-year-old Seke woman was sexually abused and killed by her relative. The body of Ruth Elizabeth Kadara was discovered in her kitchen hut in Chounda Village. Farai Machaka, 48, was arrested in connection with the murder. “Investigations done by the police revealed that Farai Machaka allegedly subjected his aunt to sexual abuse before strangling her to death. “The suspect then stole the victim’s cellphone. “The police have since recovered the stolen cellphone from the suspect,” said Comm Nyathi. *_-H-Metro_* 16. *BUDIRIRO BABY FOUND: 11-MONTH-OLD REUNITED WITH FAMILY AFTER ALLEGED KIDNAPPING BY “CHIHERA”* An 11-month-old baby who went missing in Budiriro, Harare, under suspicious circumstances has been found and reunited with his family, bringing relief to a community that feared the worst. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the news in an update posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, 11 June 2025. The baby, Adriel Basira, had disappeared on Saturday, 7 June, in what was initially believed to be a kidnapping case. “Reference is made to a viral social media post regarding an 11-month-old infant who went missing after being kidnapped by an unknown suspect in Budiriro on 07/06/25. The ZRP reports that the missing infant has been located and has been reunited with the parents,” the update stated. The baby’s mother, Future Bonga, had earlier told ZBC News that the woman suspected of taking her child was a familiar face known only as “Chihera,” a customer at their tuck shop. She explained that on the day of the incident, the woman came by in the morning, bought something, and left some change. Later that afternoon, she came to collect her money and visited the family’s home. “This lady used to buy at our tuck shop. I have known her for the past three months. She never said her name, so I used to call her Chihera. On Saturday, she bought something in the morning and left her change. I went home in the afternoon, and she came to my house to collect her change. I then rushed to the tuck shop to collect the money and left her with my 11-month-old baby,” the mother narrated. But when she went to collect the child around 5 PM, things took a disturbing turn. She also shared a chilling detail — that the woman had once told her she had never been able to have children. After the police update announcing the child had been found, many Zimbabweans on social media responded with relief, but also with questions. Some users celebrated the police for locating the child, but many others said the public deserved a full account of what happened, especially given the serious nature of the incident. Here are some of the comments: @CadreShangrila: Something is not adding up in this case. @MavhizaRobson: Since this issue contains some criminal elements, I think it’s ideal that you should give the public detailed information and all the circumstances. @gondwe_sim26232: Thank God, Awanika plus police for doing sterling work. @philgood095: Awanikwa kupi, how. Tipirei zvizere. @avocado_wacho: More information. *_-iHarare_*