A couple has been extradited from South Africa to Zimbabwe for allegedly murdering their niece, Princess Shoko, aged four. The child was reportedly abused and died from her injuries in July 2023. After attempting to conceal the crime, the couple was arrested and remanded in custody with their next court appearance set for April 11.
A married couple has been extradited from South Africa to Zimbabwe to face charges related to the alleged murder of their four-year-old niece, Princess Shoko, in 2023. John Zvivi, aged 36, and Alista Sibanda, aged 35, were returned to Zimbabwe on March 27, 2025, following their arrest. The couple appeared in court where they were remanded in custody and will have the opportunity to apply for bail at the High Court; their next court appearance is scheduled for April 11.
In April 2023, Princess Shoko and her six-year-old sister, Susan Mandaza, were left in the care of their aunt and her husband while their mother, Nomsa Sibanda, traveled back to South Africa. During this period, the couple allegedly subjected the children to abuse, which included physical beatings and starvation. Tragically, Princess Shoko succumbed to her injuries, passing away on July 23, 2023.
To conceal their crime, the accused allegedly placed the child’s body in a sack and hid it in the boot of their vehicle before discarding it in a stream at Kuwadzana Extension. When they informed Nomsa of her daughter’s death, their explanation lacked clarity. Furthermore, following her return to Zimbabwe, Nomsa reported her daughter missing on August 1, 2023, which subsequently led to the discovery of Princess Shoko’s body in a stream.
The remains were identified and transported to Parirenyatwa Hospital for a post-mortem examination; however, the pathologist’s findings were inconclusive pending toxicology results. After fleeing to South Africa, the couple was arrested due to widespread social media coverage of the case, paving the way for their extradition back to Zimbabwe. Takudzwa Jambawu is the prosecuting attorney handling the case.
In summary, John Zvivi and Alista Sibanda have been extradited from South Africa to face serious allegations of murdering their niece as well as covering up the crime. The judicial process continues, with the couple currently in custody pending their next court date, and the investigation seeks to clarify the circumstances surrounding the child’s tragic death.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
