Businessman dumps estranged wife's belongings in classroom

A bizarre domestic dispute unfolded at Selborne Routledge School in Harare yesterday when businessman Mike Charles arrived with three other men and dumped the belongings of his estranged wife, Patricia Yusufu, at the school.

The couple, married for 18 years, began experiencing marital difficulties last year. Mike Charles alleges that Patricia was involved in an affair with a married man in the UK identified only as Walter. Following a heated confrontation, Patricia left their family home.

Yesterday's incident caused chaos in a Grade 3 classroom, disrupting lessons as pupils watched in shock while four men emptied sacks containing Patricia's belongings onto the classroom floor. "Hiiiiii, mmmmmmm, aaaah," screamed the pupils amid the commotion.

Patricia, visibly distressed, pleaded with the men to stop and requested that her belongings be placed in her car, which was parked nearby. One of the men reportedly made a cryptic comment: "Mudhara vati matsaga avo vari kuada kunoisa chibage kufarm." School authorities barred Patricia from commenting further on the incident.

Mike claimed Patricia had continued to provoke him through her relationship with another man living in the neighbourhood. He added that she had been using his cars without permission and accused her of receiving gifts, including a Honda Fit, from her lover while previously driving a Mercedes Benz.

The businessman has reportedly filed a police report claiming that Patricia stole US$5,200 when leaving their home.

Patricia was previously convicted and sentenced to 24 months in prison, wholly suspended for three years on condition of good behaviour. She completed 170 hours of community service at Wilkins Hospital and paid restitution to Mike.

The unusual incident at Selborne Routledge School has left both staff and pupils rattled, highlighting how private disputes can unexpectedly spill into public spaces.