The Sunday Mail
Linda Mzapi
Sunday Mail Reporter
A six-year-old boy drowned last week in a suspected ritual murder after his uncle allegedly took him to a river, tied his hands and threw him into Nyambuya River to perform a ritual. Police in Marondera have since arrested Knowledge Kapesa (26) of Plot 31 Rusternburg Farm in connection with the death of his nephew, Tashinga Kapesa.
Knowledge was arrested after confessing that he had caused Tashinga’s death while performing what he called the Huri Nyahote traditional rite.
According to police reports, the deceased was found dead in the river with his hands tied with a satchel belt.
Mashonaland East Provincial Spokesperson, Inspector Nobert Muzondo said the deceased’s father, Shadreck Kapesa became worried when his son did not return home after accompanying Knowledge to their homestead garden.
Shadreck proceeded to Knowledge’s work place in Goromonzi to inquire about Tashinga’s whereabouts.
“Upon arrival, the accused confessed to the deceased’s father that he had tied the boy’s hands using a satchel belt and thrown him into Nyambuya river in what he claimed was a baptising ritual,” said Inspector Muzondo.
A report was made to the police, leading to Knowledge’s arrest.
“ZRP CID Marondera and Police Sub-Aqua team managed to retrieve the body,” Inspector Muzondo said.
The body was conveyed to Marondera Hospital where it is awaiting post mortem.
Knowledge is in police custody and is expected to appear in court soon.
