Tinotenda Hove- BIKITA – Police have arrested three people from Mandinyenya Village in Bikita in connection with the suspected poisoning and death of a four-year-old girl, Sabina Maziva.

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrests of Violet Gamera (60), Chamunorwa Kwanga (60), and Regina Tavengerarwei (30) in a statement issued on Sunday, October 12.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Violet Gamera (60), Chamunorwa Kwanga (60), and Regina Tavengerarwei (30) in connection with a murder case involving a four-year-old girl, Sabina Maziva, which occurred in Mandinyenya Village, Bikita,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

According to police investigations, Gamera allegedly gave the child poisoned rice as an act of revenge against the girl’s parents, whose goats had reportedly destroyed her crops.

“Initial investigations reveal that on 1st October 2025, Violet Gamera allegedly gave the victim poisoned rice as an act of revenge against the child’s parents, whose goats had previously destroyed her crops,” Nyathi said.

After eating the rice, Sabina reportedly began vomiting and was rushed to a nearby clinic for treatment. Despite receiving medical care, her condition deteriorated, and she died on October 5, 2025.

“The child later began vomiting and was referred to a local clinic, where she received medical attention. Unfortunately, her condition continued to deteriorate, leading to her death on 5th October 2025. The victim was buried on 8th October 2025,” said Nyathi.

During Sabina’s burial, community members began to suspect foul play and reported the matter to Chief Ziki, who instructed the victim’s mother to inform the police.

“During the burial, it emerged that the child may have been poisoned, prompting the community to refer the matter to Chief Ziki on 10th October 2025. The Chief instructed the victim’s mother to report the matter to the Zimbabwe Republic Police,” added Nyathi.

Following investigations, Gamera allegedly confessed and implicated her co-accused.

“Violet Gamera implicated Chamunorwa Kwanga as the person who advised her to poison the child. She further implicated Regina Tavengerarwei as the supplier of the poison,” said Nyathi.

Police have since recovered rat poison and a liquid substance suspected to be cotton pesticide, believed to have been used in the commission of the crime.

“The body of the victim has been exhumed and taken to Silveira Mission Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination,” Nyathi confirmed.

Commissioner Nyathi strongly condemned the brutal act and urged communities to handle disputes peacefully.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police strongly condemns criminal acts and cruelty in society, especially those that endanger the lives of innocent children. We urge members of the public to resolve disputes through lawful and peaceful means,” he said.