Couple Extradited to Zimbabwe for Niece’s Alleged Murder

John Zvivi and Alista Sibanda have been extradited from South Africa to Zimbabwe to face charges for allegedly murdering their niece, Princess Shoko, in 2023. Following their apprehension, they are currently in custody, having appeared before the court on March 30, 2025, with a subsequent hearing set for April 11.

A married couple, John Zvivi (36) and Alista Sibanda (35), has been extradited from South Africa to Zimbabwe following their alleged involvement in the murder of their four-year-old niece, Princess Shoko, in 2023. The couple was apprehended after they fled Zimbabwe to avoid prosecution. On March 27, 2025, they were brought back to Zimbabwe to face charges, and they made their first court appearance on March 30 before Harare Magistrate Isheunesu Matova, who ordered them to remain in custody pending their next court date on April 11.

The case began in April 2023 when the children, Princess Shoko and her sister Susan Mandaza, were placed in the care of their aunt Alista and her husband, John. Their mother, Nomsa Sibanda, had left for South Africa, trusting her children to their care. Instead, the couple is accused of subjecting the siblings to abuse, including physical violence and food deprivation.

The court heard that Princess Shoko sustained severe injuries, leading to her death on July 23, 2023. To conceal their actions, the couple allegedly concealed her body in a sack and disposed of it in a stream in Kuwadzana Extension. They later informed Nomsa of her daughter’s death without providing a credible explanation.

Following the discovery of Princess Shoko’s body on August 2, 2023, by the police, her remains were identified and sent to Parirenyatwa Hospital for examination. The pathologist’s report was inconclusive, pending toxicology results. After fleeing to South Africa to evade arrest, widespread social media attention facilitated their apprehension and extradition back to Zimbabwe. Prosecutor Takudzwa Jambawu is overseeing the case.

In conclusion, John Zvivi and Alista Sibanda have been extradited from South Africa to Zimbabwe to face charges related to the alleged murder of their four-year-old niece, Princess Shoko. The couple is accused of serious physical abuse leading to her death while under their care. They are currently in custody awaiting further legal proceedings as investigations continue.

Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com