Harare Man and New Wife Face Murder Charges in Alleged Plot to Evade Child Support
A shocking case has emerged from Harare, Zimbabwe, where a man stands accused of conspiring with his new wife to murder his ex-wife in an alleged attempt to escape paying substantial child maintenance arrears. The disturbing plot has resulted in murder charges and a reported suicide, highlighting the tragic consequences of domestic disputes.
Court Details Reveal Alleged Conspiracy
Brian Chanachimwe, a 34-year-old Harare resident, recently appeared before a magistrates' court where prosecutors presented a detailed case against him. According to court proceedings, Chanachimwe allegedly collaborated with his current wife, Olipa Chide, and another individual named Jonah Nekati to carry out the murder of his former wife, Jennifer Kalembo, who was 35 years old.
Prosecutor Takudzwa Jambawu explained to the court that the alleged conspiracy was directly motivated by Chanachimwe's desire to avoid settling child maintenance arrears totaling US$2,500. These payments were owed for the support of his three children with the deceased ex-wife. The prosecution stated that the accused persons deliberately planned the murder after Chanachimwe faced persistent pressure to fulfill his financial obligations toward his children.
Detailed Account of the Alleged Crime
The prosecution provided a chilling timeline of events, beginning on January 12 when Chanachimwe allegedly lured Kalembo from her home in Mayambara to his residence in Pazza Crowhill, Borrowdale. He reportedly used the pretext of providing US$150 for their children's school fees to convince her to visit his home.
Once Kalembo arrived at the residence, the alleged attack unfolded. According to court testimony, Chanachimwe and Olipa Chide ambushed the victim inside their house and proceeded to strangle her until she died. The prosecution presented this information as part of their case against the accused.
Attempts to Conceal the Crime
Following the alleged murder, the suspects reportedly took several steps to hide their crime. Prosecutors told the court that they disposed of Kalembo's mobile phone and burned both her purse and identity documents in an effort to eliminate evidence.
The state further alleged that the suspects hired a vehicle under false pretenses and, with assistance from Jonah Nekati, transported Kalembo's body to a remote location. They allegedly dumped her remains along a dirt road near Eyecourt, where they believed the crime would remain undiscovered.
Discovery and Subsequent Developments
Kalembo's body was discovered on January 13 by a passerby identified as Samson Bhobho, who found her remains along the remote road. This discovery triggered a police investigation that eventually led to charges against the suspects.
As Chanachimwe appeared in court to face the murder charges, the case took another dramatic and tragic turn. Reports emerged that Olipa Chide died by suicide after learning that police authorities were actively searching for her in connection with the alleged crime. Meanwhile, Jonah Nekati remains at large, with authorities continuing their efforts to locate him.
Legal Proceedings Continue
Chanachimwe is scheduled to return to court on February 4 for further proceedings in this complex case. During the initial hearing, the court clarified that any application for bail must be made at the High Court level, indicating the seriousness of the charges involved.
This case has drawn significant attention in Harare and beyond, serving as a stark reminder of the potential consequences when domestic disputes escalate to violence. The alleged connection between child maintenance obligations and the violent crime has particularly resonated with observers concerned about family law enforcement and domestic safety.
