Two Children Die in Mabvuku House Fire as Police Probe Suspected Filicide

By Southerton Business Times | Harare

Two young children aged three and six died after they were allegedly trapped inside a burning cabin house in Eastview Phase 10, Mabvuku, on Monday, in a suspected case of filicide that has shocked residents of the Harare suburb. The children's father, Gift Muyengwa (24), is alleged to have set the family home on fire following a domestic dispute with his wife, Tsitsi Zuze (22), before seriously injuring himself. Police have launched investigations into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

According to reports, the fire rapidly engulfed the cabin house, leaving the two children trapped inside. The victims were reportedly burnt beyond recognition as the blaze destroyed the structure. Preliminary information indicates that the incident followed an alleged dispute between Muyengwa and his wife shortly before the fire broke out. Sources familiar with the matter said the argument escalated into violence before the house was allegedly set ablaze.

Reports indicate that Muyengwa allegedly stabbed Zuze during the altercation before setting the house on fire. He is also alleged to have turned the weapon on himself, sustaining severe injuries. Both Muyengwa and Zuze were rushed to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, where they are receiving treatment. Medical authorities had not released updates on their conditions by Monday evening.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police is investigating the incident and has yet to issue a comprehensive statement outlining the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Authorities are expected to interview witnesses and gather forensic evidence as part of the investigation. No arrests have been announced, and police have not yet disclosed a possible motive behind the alleged attack. The tragedy has left residents of Eastview Phase 10 in mourning, with neighbours expressing shock over the deaths of the two young children.

The incident has also renewed concerns about the devastating impact of domestic violence and family-related disputes on children. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), exposure to domestic violence can have severe consequences for children and families, often resulting in long-term psychological trauma and, in extreme cases, fatalities. Community leaders and social welfare advocates have repeatedly called for greater awareness, counselling services and early intervention mechanisms to address domestic conflicts before they escalate into violence.

As investigations continue, authorities are expected to provide further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the fire and the deaths of the two children. The identities of the children have not yet been officially released.

Mabvuku house fire