Tinotenda Hove – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is investigating a suspected murder case in Eastview, Mabvuku, after two young children allegedly died when their father set fire to the room in which they were sleeping following a domestic dispute.

In a statement issued on 20 July 2026, police identified the victims as Aldine Muyengwa (5) and Ropafadzo Muyengwa (2). The children’s father, Gift Muyengwa (24), is alleged to have started the fire after an altercation with his wife, Tsitsi Zuze (22), at Eastview Phase 10, Harare, at around 2:30 am.

According to the ZRP, “The Zimbabwe Republic Police is investigating a case of murder in which two infants, Aldine Muyengwa (5) and Ropafadzo Muyengwa (2) died after the room in which they were sleeping in was allegedly set on fire by their father, Gift Muyengwa (24) following a domestic dispute with his wife, Tsitsi Zuze (22).”

Police said preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect allegedly attacked his wife with a knife while the children were asleep. The woman reportedly escaped and sought help from neighbours before reporting the incident to the authorities.

The ZRP said, “The wife managed to escape and sought help from neighbours before reporting the incident. Upon her return, she found the cabin cottage engulfed in flames and the bodies of the two children burnt beyond recognition.”

Investigators further revealed that the suspect was later found outside the burning cabin with injuries. He was taken to hospital for treatment and remains under police guard.

As investigations continue, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has appealed to members of the public to seek peaceful ways of resolving domestic conflicts.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges the public to resolve domestic disputes peacefully and seek assistance from relatives, community leaders, counsellors or the police before conflicts escalate into tragic loss of life,” the police said.