Woman Arrested After Viral Video Shows Brutal Assault On Her Own Child

Zimbabwe Mother Arrested After Viral Child Assault Video

A Zimbabwean woman has been arrested after a deeply disturbing video, showing the severe assault of a minor, spread rapidly across social media. The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed the arrest of Idah Mushayi, who is the biological mother of the victim, directly contradicting earlier online speculation that she was a stepmother. The incident has sparked national outrage and prompted a swift police response.

According to a press statement released on the 22nd of November 2025, the arrest follows intensive investigations into the viral footage. The police confirmed the suspect is Idah Mushayi, aged 27. The violent event took place on the 13th of November 2025 at Village 28, Mount Zonzwe, in the Marange area of Odzi.

Mother Tied And Beat Child Over Missing Money

The police statement detailed the horrific nature of the assault. The victim, an 11-year-old girl, had her hands and legs tied before being beaten. The alleged motive for the brutal punishment was the theft of US$11 (approximately R200). The visual evidence of the tied-up child being assaulted was what propelled the case into the national spotlight and triggered the police investigation.

Public Outrage and Praise for Police

The arrest was announced on the police’s official X account, where it was met with a flood of public comments. Many users expressed their horror at the mother’s actions while simultaneously praising the police for their swift work. One user, LEORICK, wrote:

“Thank you ZRP for your hardwork, now the courts must play their part and give that woman a very good sentencing, thank you so much ZRP.”

Another user, StarMbizo, commented on the effectiveness of arrests made from viral video evidence, stating:

“These arrests which happen following video footage have endeared me to the ZRP. You are doing a wonderful job of arresting ignorant people who commit this kind of crime. Well done!”

Other reactions included vernacular expressions of shock and support for the arrest.

User B.W. posted, “Siyai mai varange mwana wavo,” which translates to “Let the mother discipline her own child.” Another user, Anold, simply stated, “Magona chaizvo,” meaning “You have done a great job.”

Police Condemnation of Child Violence

In their official statement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police issued a strong condemnation of violence directed at children. The statement, signed by ZRP spokesperson Commissioner P. Nyathi, urged parents and guardians to adopt more responsible methods of discipline. The force emphasised its stance against all forms of child abuse.

The police statement read:

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police condemns all forms of violence against children. We urge parents and guardians to correct and guide their children in a responsible and non-violent manner.”

The case now moves to the courts, where the public will be watching closely to see what sentence Idah Mushayi receives for the brutal assault on her daughter.