A self-proclaimed prophetess from Glen Norah is in police custody after a home birth turned fatal, leading to the discovery of human remains in her possession. Rumbidzayi Sanyamvura, known locally as Madzimai Rumbi, was apprehended after a woman who sought her spiritual assistance to deliver a child tragically died at her home.
The deceased has been identified as Ms Misoya, aged 36. She passed away shortly after giving birth at Madzimai Rumbi’s residence last Tuesday. A post-mortem examination conducted at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital confirmed that Ms Misoya succumbed to complications related to high blood pressure.
Police were alerted to the tragic incident on Saturday, prompting an immediate investigation. During questioning, Madzimai Rumbi revealed a bucket containing a disturbing array of body parts, including teeth, intestines, an umbilical cord, and blood. She claimed these remains belonged to the deceased, Ms Misoya.
The discovery led to Madzimai Rumbi’s immediate arrest. Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the arrest and stated that Ms Misoya’s burial has been halted pending further investigations.
Following the suspension of the burial, Ms Misoya’s body, along with the bucket containing the human remains, were transported back to Sally Mugabe Hospital for further examination and DNA testing. These tests are expected to provide crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation.
This is not the first time Madzimai Rumbi has found herself on the wrong side of the law. Nine years prior, she was apprehended for possession of a hyena tail and a python skin, raising serious questions about her involvement in illegal activities and potentially harmful practices.
In a separate incident, highlighting the ongoing issue of illegal possession of protected animal species, a man from Lupane was recently sentenced to nine years and six months in prison for possessing a python skin, a hyena’s tail, pangolin scales, and pieces of elephant tusk in his bedroom.
Nkosilamandla Ncube (40) from the Fatima area, was arrested and taken to court where he faced charges under the Parks and Wildlife Act.
Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri, spokesperson for the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), stated: “The Zimbabwe Republic Police welcomes the sentence given to Nkosilamandla Ncube, who was convicted of being found in possession of animal products of protected species under the Parks and Wildlife Act.”
On 28 August 2025, detectives from the Minerals Flora and Fauna unit acted on information that led them to Ncube’s home. “They went to the suspect’s home and found him there,” said Detective Inspector Muteweri.
“The suspect led the detectives into his bedroom where a python skin, a hyena’s tail, pangolin scales and two pieces of elephant tusk were found.”
Ncube appeared in the Hwange Magistrates Court on 16 September 2025, before magistrate Mr Brighton Matope and prosecutor Ms Makanza. He was subsequently sentenced to nine years and six months in prison, a sentence that the Zimbabwe Republic Police hopes will serve as a deterrent to others involved in similar illegal activities.
Follow @MyZimbabweNews
