MADZIVA — The decomposed remains of a Form Six student who had been missing for eight months were discovered hanging from a tree near a hill in Madziva on Sunday.
Benjamin Vambe was last seen in December, according to villagers and relatives. His identity was reportedly established through clothing found inside his satchel near the remains.
The discovery has raised questions in the community, with residents saying the area had been visited several times by people collecting firewood without anyone noticing the body.
Some villagers suspect foul play, citing allegations that Benjamin had previously been subjected to physical abuse. However, the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, and the claims have not been independently verified.
“We strongly suspect foul play because Benjamin had been a victim of physical abuse,” said one villager.
Tensions have reportedly emerged within the family, with relatives questioning Benjamin’s father, Tineyi Vambe, a self-styled prophet, over the circumstances of the disappearance.
Family members said they recently attended a tombstone-unveiling ceremony with Tineyi, but he did not tell them that his son was missing.
“We are appealing for forensic tests to establish what really happened,” said a family member.
When contacted for comment, Tineyi said the matter was complicated and could not be discussed over the phone.
“There is more to this issue that we cannot discuss over the phone. You may come here so that we can speak face-to-face,” he said.
Benjamin was buried in Madziva on Tuesday. Police could not be reached for comment by the time of publication.
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