Couple Accused of Niece’s Murder Extradited to Zimbabwe to Face Justice

John Zvivi and Alista Sibanda, a couple extradited from South Africa, are facing charges for the alleged murder of their four-year-old niece, Princess Shoko. The court proceedings will continue with their next appearance set for April 11, 2025, after they reportedly fled to avoid legal consequences following the child’s death in 2023.

A married couple, John Zvivi (36) and Alista Sibanda (35), has been extradited from South Africa to Zimbabwe to confront serious allegations regarding the death of their four-year-old niece, Princess Shoko. Their arrest took place on March 27, 2025, after they reportedly fled Zimbabwe following the incident in 2023.

The accused appeared before Harare Magistrate Isheunesu Matova, who has placed them in custody and instructed them to request bail at the High Court. They are scheduled to return to court on April 11, 2025.

Reports indicate that the couple was entrusted with the care of Princess Shoko and her six-year-old sister, Susan Mandaza, while their mother, Nomsa Sibanda, traveled to South Africa. During this period, the children allegedly faced physical abuse and neglect, ultimately leading to Princess Shoko’s death from injuries on July 23, 2023.

To conceal their wrongdoing, the couple reportedly disposed of Princess Shoko’s body by placing it in a sack and abandoning it in a stream at Kuwadzana Extension. They informed Nomsa of her daughter’s death, but their explanations lacked credibility. Concerned for her children’s safety, Nomsa returned to Zimbabwe and filed a missing person report on August 1, 2023, prompting an investigation.

The following day, Princess Shoko’s remains were discovered in a stream, resulting in her identification and subsequent autopsy at Parirenyatwa Hospital. The pathologist’s findings have yet to be fully determined pending toxicology analysis. The couple, fearing prosecution, attempted to evade capture by escaping to South Africa but were ultimately arrested due to extensive media coverage of the case.

In summary, John Zvivi and Alista Sibanda have been extradited from South Africa to Zimbabwe to face serious charges related to the abuse and death of their niece, Princess Shoko. Following their custody appearance, the couple is remanded while awaiting further legal proceedings. The tragic case has drawn significant public attention, highlighting issues surrounding child welfare and family responsibility.

Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com