Family seeks justice for son killed by a combine harvester

A family from Ottoman Farm in Makonde is still fighting for justice after their 12-year-old son was fatally struck by a combine harvester three years ago.

The boy suffered severe skull injuries and a broken leg when he was hit by the machine, leaving the family devastated and demanding answers. Despite the tragic circumstances, Douglas Zhanero, the driver of the combine harvester, was acquitted of culpable homicide charges, a decision the family strongly disputes.

Speaking emotionally about the ordeal, the boy's mother, Tafadzwa Chineni, recounted the traumatic day. "We were informed that our son had been run over by a tractor. We rushed to the scene, and when my husband and I uncovered the body, we noticed injuries inconsistent with being run over by a tractor," she said. "My husband confronted Zhanero, who admitted to running over our child."

The matter proceeded to court, where the family appeared several times. Initially, Zhanero pleaded guilty but later retracted his plea, claiming innocence. "He was a disciplined child, and we want the truth to come out for the sake of his memory and our family's peace," said Tafadzwa.

The boy's father, Tichaona Moffart, voiced suspicions about the fairness of the trial, suggesting corruption might have played a role in the acquittal. "We feel that corruption may have influenced the case," he said.

Zhanero, who was acquitted, expressed his own shock at the incident. "What happened that day was a first for me. I thought I was the one who had run over the child," he said.

Meanwhile, Brink Bosman, the owner of Ottoman Farm, denied any involvement in the case. "The accusations against me are fabricated. They can investigate me if they want. The police must also investigate the family of the child who died," Bosman stated.

The family continues to seek justice and closure after three years, urging authorities to reopen investigations and deliver a verdict that honors their son's memory.