By Fredrick Moyo
A five month old Mberengwa infant succumbed to injuries sustained during a fight between her parents after the father struck the child with an electrical cable.
The child has been identified as Annita Makena.
ZRP Midlands spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said the incident occurred on April 26, 2024, at around 2000 hours at Chirima village near Bedford Business Centre, Mberengwa.
“The parents who are Faith Mpofu (mother) and Erinando Makena (father) both adults of village Musvupi, Chief Mataruse Mberengwa had a long standing dispute over the baby as the father alleged that his wife was impregnated by someone else prior to their marriage,” Insp Mahoko said.
“On the fateful day, while her husband was away, Mpofu packed her belongings and went back to her parents. Mpofu failed to get transport to Zvishavane and she sought refugee at Mudzimu homestead near Bedford Business Centre, Mberengwa.”
He added, “The suspect, upon his return home instituted his own investigations on Mpofu’s whereabouts and made a follow-up to Mudzimu homestead. Mpofu had Annita Makena (now deceased) strapped on her back. The suspect then wantonly assaulted Mpofu with a switch and during the process, he struck Annita. As a result of the assault, Annita died.”
The police are appealing for anyone with the accused whereabouts to report to the nearest police station as the suspect is yet to be arrested.
“We are appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of the suspect,” Insp Mahoko added.
