A 40-year-old man, Tauya Mungate, has been arrested in Mungate Village, Chinhamora, Zimbabwe, for allegedly beating his 13-year-old niece to death in a case said to have been over an accusation of stealing a $10 bill.
The brutal attack occurred on November 4, in which Mungate allegedly used a switch, a wooden broom, and a fan belt to strike the young girl, leaving her with injuries that required critical care. Just days later, officers of the local police arrested Mungate. In a statement released by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) via the social networking site X, it was confirmed: “The suspect assaulted his niece (13) to death with a switch, wooden broom, and fan belt after accusing her of stealing US$10.”
The incident has caused public outcry and raised concerns about child protection and domestic violence within Zimbabwean society. Various individuals have called for severe legal punishment for Mungate, condemning the violent acts against the child.
As investigations continue by these law enforcement agencies, community leaders and child protection advocates are pointing out the critical need for much greater awareness and additional resources in the prevention of such tragedies. There is growing momentum behind calls to strengthen support for at-risk children and families as Zimbabwe now faces the priority of safeguarding its youth from domestic violence.
