Epworth woman arrested over viral child abuse video, faces possible attempted murder charge

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police has confirmed the arrest of a Harare woman captured in a viral video assaulting a young boy, in a case that has sparked nationwide outrage. Police identified the suspect as Mercy Kawesa (36), of Overspill, Epworth. Authorities confirmed she is the mother of the child seen in the footage.

The arrest follows a public appeal issued earlier this week after the disturbing video circulated widely on social media platforms. In the footage, Kawesa is seen beating the child with a cooking stick before forcing his hands onto an open gas flame, an act that drew strong condemnation from the public and child protection advocates. According to police, Kawesa told investigators she was punishing her son for allegedly stealing items from a local tuck shop.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police had earlier warned that the suspect would face the full force of the law once identified and apprehended.

“The ZRP has taken note of a disturbing viral video involving a child abuse incident… in which a woman is clearly seen assaulting a minor and forcing the child to touch a blazing gas stove,” police said in their initial statement. “The ZRP assures the public that once the suspect is arrested, she will face the full wrath of the law, including charges of attempted murder.”

Legal experts say the severity of the alleged abuse could justify such a charge, depending on medical findings and prosecutorial assessment.

“Forcing a child onto an open flame constitutes extreme violence and poses a serious risk to life or permanent injury,” said Harare-based legal analyst Tendai Muchengeti. “That is why attempted murder is being considered.”

Child welfare organisations have also condemned the incident, stressing that violence cannot be justified as discipline.

“This is a clear case of abuse, not discipline,” said a spokesperson for a local child protection group. “There is an urgent need for awareness on non-violent parenting methods.”

Police have not yet disclosed the condition of the child, but indicated that investigations are ongoing.

The case highlights growing concerns around child abuse in Zimbabwe, particularly incidents exposed through social media, which often trigger swift law enforcement action. Authorities have urged members of the public to continue reporting abuse cases and to cooperate with law enforcement to protect vulnerable children.

Epworth child abuse case; Zimbabwe viral video abuse