By Staff Reporter

Shock and grief has engulfed a Gokwe South village after an 18-year-old step-mother allegedly strangled her three-year-old step-son and dumped his lifeless body in nearby bushes.

The toddler, identified as Alvin Makore, was found dead on 13 February 2026, at Village Madzura under Chief Sai, in a case that has left villagers stunned and searching for answers.

Midlands Provincial Police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the tragic incident, saying the Zimbabwe Republic Police in Gokwe District is investigating a suspected murder in terms of Section 47 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23].

“It is alleged that the now deceased Alvin Makore went to the bushes behind the homestead to relieve himself. The step-mother followed him and allegedly carried him further into the bushes where she strangled him to death and left the body at the scene,” said Inspector Mahoko.

Police said suspicion arose after Alvin disappeared and his uncle, Dambudzo Machona (55), began making inquiries about the child’s whereabouts but did not receive a satisfactory explanation from the step-mother, Sharai Foromani.

A search party was organised, leading to the grim discovery of the toddler’s body in the bushes. Investigators also reportedly noted footsteps believed to be linked to the suspect at the scene.

The motive behind the alleged killing remains unclear, and police has launched investigations to establish the full circumstances surrounding the child’s death.

Inspector Mahoko urged members of the public to resolve disputes peacefully and avoid resorting to violence.

“The public is reminded that taking someone’s life is never the best solution to solving problems,” he said.

Police investigations are ongoing.