ZIMSEC Results Spark Tragedy: Bulawayo Teen Ingests Insecticide
A Bulawayo family is mourning the death of a 16-year-old girl who died after allegedly ingesting poison shortly after checking her November 2025 Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) Ordinary Level results.
Police confirmed the tragic incident, saying the teenager was deeply distressed after discovering she had passed only two subjects out of seven.
The incident happened on Friday, January 16, 2026, at around 9.30 pm, shortly after the release and checking of the national examination results. The teenager was a resident of Nguboyenja suburb in Bulawayo.
Authorities say the case has renewed concerns about the pressure learners face following the release of examination results.
Police Confirm Circumstances Surrounding Death
Zimbabwe Republic Police in Bulawayo said the teenager accessed her results online before the incident unfolded.
Introducing the account, police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele said the emotional impact was immediate.
“Upon discovering that she only passed two subjects, she became devastated and started crying,” Inspector Msebele said.
Police said the teenager then went into the kitchen where she allegedly accessed a fast-acting insecticide.
“She later rushed to the kitchen, where she took Dichlorvos insecticide from a cupboard and drank it,” Inspector Msebele said.
Dichlorvos is commonly used as a cockroach insecticide and is known for its rapid toxic effects.
Relatives Tried To Save Her
Police said the act was noticed almost immediately by a relative who was nearby.
“She was seen by one of her cousins who screamed and quickly snatched the insecticide while advising others of what had happened,” Inspector Msebele said.
Family members reportedly tried to administer emergency first aid before seeking professional medical help.
“Relatives attempted to give her milk and charcoal before rushing her to Mpilo Central Hospital,” Inspector Msebele said.
Despite the efforts, the teenager did not survive.
“She passed on while being admitted,” police said.
Appeal To Parents And Learners
Following the incident, police urged young people dealing with emotional distress to seek help rather than resorting to self-harm.
“Young people facing emotional challenges should talk to parents, teachers, counsellors or trusted adults,” Inspector Msebele said.
Police also appealed to parents and guardians to take extra precautions at home.
“We urge parents and guardians to ensure that pesticides, poisons and other dangerous substances are kept out of reach of children,” she said.
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The post Bulawayo Teen Dies By Suicide After Poor ZIMSEC O-Level Results appeared first on iHarare News.
