By Tadiwanashe Mberikunashe
A 3-year-old child strapped to her mother’s back was tragically killed during a confrontation between her uncle and a police officer in Mushandike, Chief Charumbira area on June 27, 2025.
The incident occurred when a police constabulary had arrested the child’s father, who had been buying beer for the accused, for theft, sparking a violent reaction from the uncle, Justin Tavagwisa (47), who was intoxicated at the time.
Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the death of three-year-old Brian Mavhu and appealed to members of the public with information that can lead to the arrest of Justin and also warned people against using violence when solving disputes.
“I confirm a report of murder where an uncle fatally struck his nephew in Charumbira area during a scuffle with a local police constabulary. I appeal to members of the public to provide information that can lead to the arrest of Justin who is still on the run.
We also want to urge people to avoid the use of violence when solving issues,” said Inspector Dhewa.
On the day in question at around 2000 hours, the deceased’s mother Mary Tavagwisa who stays together with the accused arrived home from her piece job and found out that her door had been broken and US$60 was missing.
Her child informed her that her ex-husband Luckson Mavhu (38) was responsible for both the break in and theft.
Mary reported to a local police constabulary who found Luckson and Justin drinking beer at Chibhon’ashuro Business Centre. The officer arrested Luckson and they agreed to go home and solve the matter.
Justin followed and insisted that the officer should let Justin go since he was the one who had been buying him beer. Upon reaching home, Justin took a log intending to hit the officer who evaded and he struck the child when Marry tried to intervene.
Justin rushed the baby to Masvingo Provincial Hospital where he was pronounced dead upon arrival the matter was reported to the police and Justin ran away.
