ZRP Launch Manhunt for Woman in Viral Child Torture Video; Attempted Murder Charges Loom

Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched a high-priority investigation into a disturbing viral video depicting the brutal assault of a minor. Authorities confirmed on Monday, 23 March 2026, that the suspect, a Shona-speaking woman, could face charges as severe as attempted murder once apprehended.

The footage, which surfaced over the weekend and sparked immediate national outrage, shows the woman "disciplining" a young boy. The suspect is seen repeatedly striking the child with a wooden cooking stick (mugoti) before the video takes a more sinister turn. In a chilling display of cruelty, she is seen forcefully holding the minor's hands over an open, blazing gas flame.

In an official police statement, national spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi emphasized the gravity of the incident:

“The ZRP has taken note of a disturbing viral video involving a child abuse incident circulating on social media... in which a woman is clearly seen assaulting a minor and forcing the child to touch a blazing gas stove.”

Despite the clarity of the woman's face and voice in the footage, her identity and location remain unknown. The ZRP has made an urgent appeal to the public to assist in tracking down the suspect. Furthermore, the police are calling on the child’s relatives or guardians to come forward to assist with the investigation and ensure the victim receives medical and psychological support.

“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,” the statement concluded.

Legal experts suggest that the use of a gas flame elevates the case from "Assault" or "Ill-treatment of Children" under the Children’s Act to Attempted Murder, due to the life-threatening nature of the burns and the potential for permanent disability.

This incident has reignited debates regarding the thin line between corporal punishment and criminal abuse in Zimbabwean households. Social workers have called for more stringent monitoring of domestic environments to protect vulnerable minors from such "extreme disciplinary measures."

ZRP viral child abuse video