Zaka Man Accused of Killing ECD Learner After Claiming Child Was Turning Into a Goblin

ZAKA – A 54-year-old man from Mutanda Village under Chief Bota in Zaka has appeared in court facing a murder charge after allegedly killing a young schoolboy and later claiming the child was transforming into a goblin.

The accused, Davis Mafume, appeared before Zaka Magistrate Grace Tupiri this week and was remanded in custody pending further investigations. According to court papers, the incident occurred on 4 June 2026 and involved an Early Childhood Development (ECD) learner from Vhudizi Primary School.

The State alleges that the young boy left home for school at around 6:30 am before returning later in the day after classes. Prosecutors told the court that the child's grandparents had accompanied his mother to Jerera Growth Point, leaving no one at home when he returned from school. At approximately 6 pm, the child reportedly went to his aunt's homestead, where Mafume was drinking beer. The court heard that Mafume later offered to escort the boy home. However, while walking along the way, he allegedly struck the child several times on the head with a hoe, causing fatal injuries. The child died at the scene.

According to information cited by TellZim News from sources familiar with the investigation, Mafume allegedly told police that he believed the child was turning into a goblin and that this belief motivated his actions. The claim has not been tested in court and forms part of the ongoing police investigation. Law enforcement authorities have not indicated whether psychiatric or mental health assessments will form part of the proceedings.

Police attended the scene and recovered a hoe believed to have been used during the attack. The implement has been taken into custody as an exhibit. The child's body was transported to a local mortuary for a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death. Investigators arrested Mafume at approximately 12:20 am on 5 June 2026.

The State opposed bail, arguing that the accused posed a flight risk and could interfere with witnesses if released. Prosecutors also indicated that investigators required additional time to complete the docket and gather evidence related to the case. Magistrate Tupiri remanded Mafume in custody pending further court proceedings. The case has shocked residents in Zaka, with community members expressing grief over the death of the young learner while awaiting the outcome of the criminal proceedings. Under Zimbabwean law, an accused person remains innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Zaka murder case