Couple Extradited to Zimbabwe for Alleged Murder of Niece
A married couple, John Zvivi and Alista Sibanda, was extradited from South Africa to Zimbabwe for allegedly murdering their four-year-old niece, Princess Shoko, in 2023. They are now in custody, awaiting trial, as the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child’s death continues.
A married couple, John Zvivi (36) and Alista Sibanda (35), has been extradited from South Africa to Zimbabwe after being accused of allegedly killing their four-year-old niece, Princess Shoko, in 2023. Their return to Zimbabwe followed a dramatic arrest in South Africa on March 27, 2025, after they had fled across the border.
Upon their court appearance on Saturday before Harare Magistrate Isheunesu Matova, they were remanded in custody and instructed to apply for bail at the High Court. Their next court date is scheduled for April 11, 2025.
The events leading to their extradition began in April 2023 when Princess and her six-year-old sister, Susan Mandaza, were placed in the care of their aunt and uncle in Zvimba. The children’s mother, Nomsa Sibanda, who is Alista’s sister, left them under the couple’s guardianship while she traveled back to South Africa. Reports indicate that the couple began to abuse the children, subjecting them to physical harm and withholding food.
Princess Shoko reportedly succumbed to her injuries in July 2023, with her death occurring on July 23. To conceal their crime, the couple allegedly concealed her body in a sack and disposed of it in a stream in Kuwadzana Extension.
Following the incident, they informed Nomsa of her daughter’s death without providing a credible explanation. On August 1, 2023, Nomsa returned and filed a missing person’s report, which led to the discovery of Princess’s body the following day in Dzvivarasekwa, Harare. After identification, the remains were sent to Parirenyatwa Hospital for a post-mortem examination; however, the pathologist’s findings were inconclusive pending toxicology results.
In fear of apprehension, Zvivi and Sibanda fled to South Africa, yet their case drew significant media attention, resulting in their eventual arrest and extradition. Takudzwa Jambawu is prosecuting the case.
The extradition of John Zvivi and Alista Sibanda marks a pivotal moment in a tragic case involving the alleged abuse and murder of their niece, Princess Shoko. Following their flight to South Africa and eventual arrest, they now face serious charges back in Zimbabwe. The upcoming court proceedings will delve deeper into the details surrounding this case, which has garnered significant public interest and concern regarding child welfare.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
