Patrick Chitumba [email protected]
A 22-year-old man allegedly murdered his employer, burnt her body for two days and scattered the remains in a field after she reprimanded him over his work performance at a farm in Gweru.
The suspect, Takunda Kazembe, who was employed as a general worker at a plot in Woodend, Gweru, was arrested in connection with the murder of his employer, Ms Fungai Mpofu (53), following the incident on October 28.
In a statement, National Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest, saying Kazembe allegedly attacked Ms Mpofu with a metal container after she reprimanded him over his work performance.
“The suspect allegedly struck the victim several times with a metal container until she lost consciousness. He then covered her with a tent,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
He said Kazembe allegedly discovered that Ms Mpofu had died before pouring petrol on her body and setting it alight.
“The suspect reportedly continued burning the body for two days before scattering the ashes in a field in an apparent attempt to conceal the crime,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
Commissioner Nyathi said that after allegedly killing his employer, Kazembe stole approximately 1.5 tonnes of maize and two cellphones belonging to the victim, which he subsequently sold.
“He reportedly fled to his rural home after the incident where he was arrested,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
The suspect is expected to face murder and related charges.
