A family in Kwekwe left the body of murdered Anna Matambo at her boyfriend’s home Thursday, following traditional beliefs about avenging spirits, after she was allegedly killed with an axe on February 10 in Zimbabwe’s Mbizo suburb.

The dramatic protest took place at the suspect’s residence in Mbizo 15, with relatives placing the body on his verandah before taking it to Gutu for burial.

The victim’s uncle, Phillip Chidhakwa, said the act aligned with cultural practices ensuring proper spiritual farewell. “I was called on Sunday evening about her murder. She was killed by her boyfriend,” said Chidhakwa, who lives in Chegutu.

Three children, aged 13, 11, and 9, witnessed their mother’s death, according to Chidhakwa. “The children saw their mother being struck three times with an axe on the head, and she died instantly,” he said.

Midlands Provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said authorities have not yet received reports of the murder, though investigations are ongoing to locate the suspect.

The killing allegedly occurred at the couple’s home in Mbizo 13, from which the suspect fled after the incident.