The ManicaPost
Abel Zhakata Senior Reporter
A FOUR-YEAR-OLD Nyanga boy was killed, while his two siblings were left battling for life at Emmanuel Mission Hospital recently after they ate poisoned food allegedly laced by their father’s second wife whose intentions were to eliminate their mother from the polygamous marriage.
The incident, which resulted in the death of Joseph Chiunda happened in Pabwe Village under Chief Tangwena’s area last Tuesday.
The suspect, Joyce Chikomo, has since been arraigned before Nyanga provincial magistrate, Mr Ignatio Mhene on murder and attempted murder charges.
Mr Mhene advised her to apply for bail at the High Court in Harare since she is facing a Third Schedule offence.
She was remanded in custody to November 18.
Public prosecutor, Mr Kelvin Mufute, told the court that the suspect cooked rice and potatoes for the whole family on the day in question.
“At around 8am, the accused person prepared rice and potatoes for breakfast. She served the family members who were present and left a portion for Sofia Tangwena who is the first wife to the accused’s husband. At that time Chikomo administered poison into Sofia’s food,” he said and added:
“All the family members ate their food without any complains. However, later in the day Sofia’s children complained of hunger and ate their mother’s food as she was still away from home. Joseph and his siblings, Abel (two) and Sama (one) ate the poisoned food.”
Soon after finishing their meal they started complaining of severe stomach pains. They began vomiting and were given milk as a first aid measure, but they were not taken to hospital.
The following day Joseph died at around 9am and his two siblings were rushed to hospital for treatment.
The identity of the poison is yet to ascertained.
