Tinotenda Hove – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a stern warning to individuals allegedly exploiting the tragic deaths of children in Kuwadzana for personal and criminal gain.

In a statement released on Sunday, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi cautioned that some people were taking advantage of public grief to solicit money and incite illegal activities under false pretenses.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police warns criminals who are now taking advantage of the Kuwadzana children’s tragedy to mobilize the public to deposit or send money into Ecocash and InnBucks accounts owned or controlled by Josphine Mutongi,” said Commissioner Nyathi. “These individuals are doing so under the guise of assisting the families, protesting alleged missing body parts, and organizing illegal demonstrations.”

The police clarified that there was no evidence to support claims circulating on social media that the victims had missing body parts. “For the record, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has no evidence that one or all of the victims had missing body parts,” the statement read.

Commissioner Nyathi confirmed that a full post-mortem examination would be conducted on October 6, 2025, in Harare. “The results will be made public in consultation with the families,” he said.

According to the police, the families of the deceased children have disowned Josphine Mutongi, who has been using social media to mobilize funds and spread misinformation. “The families of the victims have disowned Josphine Mutongi, who is openly using social media platforms to create confusion among Zimbabweans,” Commissioner Nyathi said.

He further warned that the law would take its course against anyone attempting to incite violence or organize illegal gatherings. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police strongly warns anyone or groups who are agitating for violence or illegal gatherings that the law will definitely take its course without fear or favour,” he emphasized.

Commissioner Nyathi urged the public to respect the privacy of the grieving families and allow investigations to proceed without interference. “The public should respect the privacy of the grieving families and in the process allow the Police to find out what exactly happened in this sad incident,” he said.

The ZRP reiterated its commitment to uncovering the truth behind the Kuwadzana tragedy and maintaining peace amid growing public concern.