2 female teachers draw pupils' blood

Two female teachers from Mbuya Nehanda Primary School in Bikita are facing serious assault charges after allegedly drawing blood from 19 Early Childhood Development (ECD) pupils without consent.

Beatrice Gotsani (35) and Charity Matiza (42) are expected to appear in court this afternoon in connection with the disturbing incident, which occurred last Thursday at the school's ECD centre.

According to preliminary reports, Gotsani and Matiza are accused of using syringes to extract blood from the young pupils, raising alarm and concern among parents and the broader community.

The matter reportedly came to light when the children disclosed the incident to Francis Matutu, a staff member at the school. Authorities were alerted, leading to the arrest of the two teachers.

Details surrounding the motive for the alleged blood extraction remain unclear, and investigations are ongoing. The incident has sparked outrage in the Bikita community, with parents demanding answers and assurances about the safety of their children.

Provincial education officials have not yet issued a formal statement, but sources indicate that the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is monitoring the case closely.

More updates to follow as the case unfolds in court.