Lupane man jailed for 16 years for the murder of stepmother

Lupane district map

HWANGE — The High Court Circuit sitting at Hwange has sentenced 22‑year‑old Mpofu to 16 years’ imprisonment after convicting him of the brutal murder of his 72‑year‑old stepmother, Christine Ncube, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said.

On 17 May 2025 at Ncube’s homestead in Lupane, prosecutors say Mpofu struck the elderly woman on the head with an axe and then set her on fire inside her kitchen hut. Witnesses found Ncube alive but gravely injured, bleeding from head trauma and suffering severe burns. She was rushed to the hospital and died a month later from her injuries. The State presented a recorded phone call in which Mpofu allegedly confessed to his brother that he had struck Ncube and set her ablaze. That confession, together with witness testimony and medical evidence documenting head trauma and extensive burns, formed the core of the prosecution’s case.

Mpofu told the court the incident followed a verbal argument about failing to help carry grain to a grinding mill. He claimed he had pulled a burning log from the fire and only pretended to strike Ncube, saying she lost her balance and fell into the flames. He denied using an axe.

The High Court rejected Mpofu’s version, finding the State had proved beyond a reasonable doubt that he inflicted the fatal injuries. The sentence reflects the court’s view of the aggravating factors, including the victim’s advanced age and the violent nature of the attack.

The conviction underscores the criminal justice system’s response to severe domestic violence and elder abuse. Legal observers say the sentence aims to deliver justice and deter similar offences, while also highlighting the need for stronger community protections for vulnerable older persons in rural areas. Local leaders and social services may face renewed calls to improve reporting channels, elder‑care support, and conflict‑resolution mechanisms to prevent household disputes from escalating into violence.

Any appeal will follow High Court procedures. The NPA will indicate whether it intends to pursue further action or whether the defence will lodge an appeal. Meanwhile, community stakeholders are expected to discuss preventive measures and support services for elderly residents.

Lupane murder sentence 2026