Harare Mother Strangles 1-Year-Old Baby To Death Over Deadbeat Father

Authorities in Nyamandlovu have detained a 29-year-old woman following disturbing allegations that she intentionally caused the death of her 19-month-old daughter.

The incident, which occurred on May 28 at Seafield Estate Village, initially appeared to be a case of sudden unexplained death until medical examinations revealed disturbing evidence.

Autopsy Reveals Horrific Details

Forensic reports indicate the child, identified as Shylet Sibanda, died from mechanical asphyxiation consistent with strangulation. This discovery transformed what was first considered a tragic natural death into a criminal homicide investigation.

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Woman strangles baby over deadbeat father

According to law enforcement statements released on the social media platform X, the suspect, Simangaliso Dube, allegedly confessed to the crime during interrogation. Investigators report that Dube claimed overwhelming frustration with the child’s father’s failure to provide financial support pushed her to commit the unthinkable act.

“The suspect expressed that persistent financial pressures and lack of paternal support became unbearable, leading to this tragic outcome,” revealed a police insider familiar with the case.

The mother shared that the baby daddy was not sending her any money for the child’s upkeep. This ultimately strained her wallet and caused her frustration.

Ongoing Criminal Investigation

Matabeleland North police officials confirmed the arrest occurred on May 30 and emphasised that their investigation remains active. Authorities are examining all aspects of the case, including the complete history of the relationship between the parents and the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.

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This heartbreaking incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, raising difficult questions about parental responsibility, mental health support systems, and child protection measures in the region.