Woman stones son to death after failing to get job as a maid

An 18-year-old woman from Mkwanise has been arrested for the brutal murder of her 2-year-old son, an act reportedly committed after she failed to secure employment as a maid in Chiredzi.

The tragic incident occurred on Tuesday, 10 December 2024, near the Maranatha paddock. According to a statement released by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) on social media platform X, Maria Zimvumi allegedly stoned her baby boy to death for reasons that remain unclear.

The young woman, frustrated by her inability to find work, reportedly carried out the violent act and then attempted to conceal her crime. Zimvumi allegedly carried her child's body on her back and falsely claimed to the police that the child had fallen from her back and died as a result of the fall.

However, following a thorough investigation, the police discovered inconsistencies in the suspect's account, and further inquiries revealed that the child's death was the result of a deliberate act of violence. Zimvumi was subsequently arrested and charged with murder.

This shocking crime has left the community in disbelief, as local authorities continue their investigation into the motives behind the tragic incident. The police are yet to confirm if there were any underlying mental health issues or other factors that may have contributed to the suspect's actions.