The ManicaPost
Abel Zhakata
Senior Reporter
A NYANGA man who smashed a neighbour’s toddler thrice on the ground, killing her instantly in a bizarre fit of rage will spend the next 25 years in jail after being convicted of murder with actual intent.
Forward Kembo of Kagoza Village under Chief Katerere’s area appeared before Justice Jester Charewa facing murder charges as defined in Section 47 (1) (a) or (b) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23.
Principal public prosecutor, Ms Jane-Rose Matsikidze said Kembo murdered Panenyasha Zamwarira on July 12, 2020.
“Kembo and Panenyasha were neighbours in Kagoza Village. On the day in question, Panenyasha retired to bed together with her parents and siblings. Kembo was at his homestead together with his sisters,” she said.
At around 11pm, Kembo assaulted his sister who shouted for help.
Panenyasha’s parents responded to the distress calls, but Kembo attacked them.
As the mayhem continued, the minors, including Panenyasha, were awakened by the noise.
They left their house to follow their parents who were trying to restrain Kembo. Upon seeing the children, Kembo shifted his focus and attacked the minors.
“He grabbed Panenyasha by her legs and raised her into the air.
‘‘Panenyasha, who was hiding, came out of her hiding place and tried to save her daughter, but Kembo manhandled her. Kembo smashed Panenyasha three times to the ground while holding her legs. She died instantly. Kembo disappeared from the scene after committing the crime. A report was made to the police leading to his arrest,” said Ms Matsikidze.
A post mortem done by Dr Martin Chitambo at Elim Mission Hospital concluded that Panenyasha’s death was a result of severe head trauma.
