Headlands man jailed for attempted ritual killing

ZIMSPHERE

RUSAPE – A 20-year-old man from Headlands, Tatenda Mudziwedare, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for attempted murder. The sentence was handed down by the Rusape Magistrates' Court after Mudziwedare pleaded guilty to attempting to strangle a seven-year-old Grade 1 pupil.

The court heard that on February 28, 2024, Mudziwedare was instructed by a businessman at Sherenje Business Centre to bring him a human head. 

Acting on these instructions, Mudziwedare chased a group of pupils on their way to school. He managed to grab one of the pupils and began to strangle the child.

Mudziwedare only ceased his actions when he noticed villagers approaching. The young victim later recounted the ordeal to his mother, who reported the incident to the police. This led to Mudziwedare's arrest.

Of the seven-year sentence, three years were suspended. The case has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and child safety.