By Tendai Makaripe
HARARE —Three children aged between two and nine died within two days in separate incidents arising from domestic disputes in Zhombe and Mvurwi, police said.
In Maisa Village, Zhombe, Emily Takadii, 23, allegedly gave a poisonous substance to her two sons on September 21.
Shyne Tavatya, 6, and Sean Tavatya, 9, died after admission to Kwekwe District Hospital.
Takadii allegedly ingested the same substance and remained in critical condition at the hospital.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is concerned with cases of murder, attempted murder and suicide involving couples and family members arising from domestic disputes,” police said.
The Zhombe incident followed a disagreement between Takadii and her husband over allegations of infidelity, according to the statement.
A day later, officers arrested Kudakwashe Rangarirai, 27, in Mvurwi after another incident involving a child.
Rangarirai allegedly killed his two-year-old stepson, Prince Owen Mugari, and seriously injured his 23-year-old wife at Omeath Extension.
He later allegedly ingested a poisonous substance and was admitted to Mvurwi Hospital.
His wife remained in critical condition at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals.
The two incidents left three children dead within two days as domestic disputes turned deadly inside family homes.
In Marowa Village, Mukumbura, Robert Tashinga, 50, allegedly attacked his wife with an axe on September 22.
Nollent Sinosi, 36, died at the scene, while Tashinga allegedly fled.
In Glen View 3, Harare, police found Nyasha Mhungu, 35, and Olga Muzhingi, 30, dead in their bedroom on September 23.
The couple had reportedly been experiencing marital disputes.
Investigators are still working to establish the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
In Nyamhunga, Kariba, officers arrested Emmanuel Mpofu, 33, after he allegedly severely assaulted his 25-year-old wife.
The statement said the assault followed allegations of infidelity, while the woman received treatment at Kariba Hospital.
“Members of the public are encouraged to seek counselling and involve trusted third parties,” police said.
The statement named traditional leaders, church leaders and professional counsellors among those who could help families resolve disputes peacefully.
The deaths of Shyne, Sean and Prince show how conflict between adults can place children directly in danger.
