Mother arrested over son's death

A 26-year-old woman from Epworth has been arrested for allegedly killing her five-year-old son in a tragic incident linked to domestic disputes.

Police identified the suspect as Hazel Makuyana, who is accused of forcing her son, Mukudzeyi Makuyana, to swallow rat poison following a heated argument with her husband, 41-year-old Talent Nyakuwawa.

According to police, the dispute reportedly centred on Hazel's continued communication with her ex-husband.

Authorities say that after Nyakuwawa left for work on Friday, Hazel allegedly gave the child rat poison, believing it would end their suffering.

When Nyakuwawa returned home at around 7PM, he found Mukudzeyi lying unresponsive on the bed. He immediately rushed the boy to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, where doctors attempted to save his life.

Despite medical efforts, the child died on Saturday.

On Monday, Hazel reportedly phoned Nyakuwawa to inquire about the child's condition, a move that ultimately led to her arrest.

Luckmore Chakanza, the Harare provincial police spokesperson, confirmed the incident.

"A sachet of rat poison was found on the deceased's bed. Talent lured Hazel to the hospital under the pretence that Mukudzeyi was still being treated. Upon her arrival, she was taken into custody," said Chakanza.

Police said that during questioning, Hazel allegedly admitted to administering the poison to her son. She also revealed that she had ingested some of the poison herself with the intention of ending both their lives.

Investigations further revealed that she later went to the Balancing Rocks, believing she would die there.

The body of the child is currently at the mortuary at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Police said investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are continuing.