ECD teacher sucks pupils' blood

A 51-year-old Early Childhood Development (ECD) teacher from Bikita, Masvingo province, has appeared before Masvingo Regional Magistrates Court charged with assault after being accused of sucking blood from two pupils.

The teacher, whose name has not been disclosed, faces two counts of assault allegedly committed between May 20 and June 5, 2025, at a primary school in Bikita.

The disturbing allegations surfaced when one parent, while bathing their child, discovered unexplained wounds on the child's fingers. Upon questioning, the child recounted the alleged ordeal, prompting the parent to report the matter to the school authorities.

Following this, additional complainants reportedly came forward with similar claims, though the reasons behind the teacher's bizarre behavior remain unclear.

The accused was remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear again on June 30, 2025, as investigations continue.

The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) emphasized that the case underscores the urgent need for heightened vigilance and child protection measures within educational institutions to ensure the safety and wellbeing of learners.