Online Reporter
B-Metro Reporter
A GWERU man who locked two defenceless children inside a hut and torched it has been slapped with two life sentences after the High Court described the killings as cruel, calculated and beyond redemption.
Abel Mativenga (20) of Watershed Farm was this week sentenced to life in prison twice over for the murder of Everjoy Mangena (13) and Natasha Kanyama (5), who died in a deliberately set inferno.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the horrific incident occurred on 19 March 2025.
Mativenga killed the children after he became enraged by allegations that his parents were witches.
The NPAZ said he ignored advice against violence and instead armed himself with a lighter before carrying out the deadly plan.
“He obtained a lighter, tied the hut door with wire to trap the children and set the structure on fire,” said the prosecuting authority.
“He fled the scene and watched from hiding as neighbours failed to rescue the victims.”
The hut eventually collapsed in flames, killing both children instantly. Their bodies were later recovered with 100 percent burns.
The court heard that the attack was carefully planned and executed, with the children deliberately locked inside to ensure there was no escape.
“Given the premeditation, deliberate entrapment and the killing of two minors, the court imposed the maximum penalty of two life sentences,” the NPAZ said.
In condemning the killings, the prosecuting authority said the sentence sends a strong message that violence against children will never be tolerated.
The NPAZ also urged communities to act early when danger signs appear.
“Communities must resolve disputes peacefully, report warning signs and seek help before anger turns deadly,” said the authority.
