Domestic worker kills employer's son over salary

A 12-year-old boy was allegedly killed after being struck on the head with a stone by a 16-year-old domestic worker following a dispute over outstanding wages in Zivhu Village, under Chief Shindi in Ngundu, Masvingo.

Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident, which occurred at around 2am on October 16, 2026.

The 16-year-old suspect, who reportedly has an intellectual disability, was employed as a domestic worker by 74-year-old Jemuta Zhou.

According to police, the suspect and Zhou had argued over outstanding wages at around 6pm on October 15. The dispute was subsequently resolved, and the outstanding salary was paid.

The two later went to sleep. However, the suspect allegedly woke up in the early hours of the following morning and went to Zhou's house, where he knocked on the door.

When Zhou did not come out, the 12-year-old boy emerged and reportedly told the suspect that the matter would be resolved in the morning.

The suspect allegedly refused to wait, picked up a stone and struck the boy once on the head. The child reportedly bled profusely and died at the scene.

The incident was reported to the police, resulting in the arrest of the teenage suspect. The body was taken to Neshuro Hospital.

Inspector Dhewa urged families and caregivers to ensure that people requiring medical treatment receive appropriate care and take prescribed medication as directed.

"We appeal to members of the public to ensure that people who require medication receive their treatment as prescribed and are given the necessary support," he said.

He also encouraged families to seek professional medical assistance where necessary and ensure that vulnerable individuals receive appropriate care.