Fanuel Chinowaita
Harare – May 15, 2025 – The Supreme Court of Zimbabwe has officially commuted the death sentences of Tafadzwa Shamba and Tapiwa Makore (Senior) to life imprisonment following their conviction for the brutal murder of seven-year-old Tapiwa Makore (Junior) in 2023.
The decision, announced on May 12, comes nearly two years after the heinous crime that sent shockwaves through the nation.
The tragic case dates back to September 17, 2020, when young Tapiwa Junior went missing from Makore Village in Murewa. A frantic search by his family and local villagers led to a horrific revelation—his dismembered remains were discovered across the village, horrifyingly dragged by local dogs, with some body parts found in a disused pit latrine. The grisly nature of the killing suggested that it was perpetrated for ritualistic purposes, sparking widespread outrage and condemnation.
The High Court convicted Shamba and Makore Senior for their involvement in this macabre act, establishing that Tapiwa Junior was related to one of the offenders, deepening the tragedy of the case. Given the premeditated nature of the crime, the initial sentencing included the death penalty. However, following Zimbabwe’s abolition of the death penalty, the Supreme Court found itself unable to uphold the original sentences, compelling a reevaluation.
In its ruling, the Supreme Court emphasized its dedication to justice while acknowledging the evolving legal landscape regarding capital punishment. Both offenders now face life sentences, reflecting the gravity of their actions while honoring the legal changes that have taken place since their conviction.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe has reiterated its commitment to tackling violent crime and ensuring justice for victims, with this case serving as one of the most harrowing child murders in recent memory. The community continues to grieve for the young boy taken too soon, as the legal ramifications of this case unfold in a new chapter of Zimbabwe’s justice system.