Businessman, girlfriend kidnap infant

A Guruve teacher and businessman, along with his girlfriend, are assisting police following allegations that they kidnapped a five-day-old baby.

Brighton Mupunga (46) and Juliet Mujeri (30) were taken into custody at Guruve police station as part of ongoing investigations.

Mashonaland Central police spokesperson Inspector Milton Mundembe confirmed that the incident occurred last week. Authorities allege that Mupunga and Mujeri hatched a plan to abduct the newborn of a 17-year-old mother after reportedly paying for her hospital bills.

According to police, Mupunga instructed his girlfriend to steal the baby around 10pm, which she allegedly carried out successfully. The mother discovered her child missing and raised the alarm, calling for help from neighbours.

Mupunga was initially apprehended, having visited the mother's home prior to the abduction. A search of his phone allegedly revealed messages exchanged with Mujeri detailing the kidnapping plan. Mujeri was later arrested, and the baby was safely recovered and referred to Guruve Hospital for care.

Investigations are ongoing as police seek to establish the full circumstances of the alleged crime.