A Harare traffic police officer, Constable Eronia Payesa, and her family awoke to a chilling discovery on Sunday morning: an empty coffin, splashed with blood, had been dumped in their New Msasa yard. The incident has left the family and neighbours deeply disturbed and police in Hatfield are currently investigating the matter.
The bizarre discovery was made by Lauren Simango, 34, who woke before the rest of the household and went to clean the yard. She found the coffin, measuring 160cm x 57cm, positioned at the gate, but inside the property. The coffin was open, and police confirmed that blood was splattered inside.
The family, including Constable Payesa’s husband, Dumisani Mahahani, and their 10-year-old son, Tinashe, had retired to bed on Saturday evening seemingly unaware of the impending unsettling event. Police reports indicate that Tinashe was the last to enter the yard at 6.30 PM after returning from school, and he did not lock the gate.
“The complainant and his family retired to bed leaving everything intact,” the police statement reads.
The Hatfield police, in a memo to the Officer Commanding Chitungwiza Police District, detailed the incident. The memo serves as official documentation of the strange occurrence, providing a record for further investigation and analysis.
The unusual nature of the incident has prompted the involvement of detectives from the specialist CID Forensic Unit, who attended the scene to gather evidence and potentially shed light on the circumstances surrounding the event. Their expertise in forensic analysis will be crucial in determining the source of the blood and potentially identifying any other relevant clues.
The incident raises numerous questions. Was this a targeted act of intimidation or a random act of vandalism? The presence of blood adds a layer of complexity and raises concerns about the potential involvement of foul play. The fact that the coffin was empty suggests that the intention may not have been to dispose of a body, but rather to deliver a symbolic message.
The investigation will need to explore various possibilities, including threats, ritualistic practices, or even a prank gone horribly wrong. The lack of any apparent forced entry to the property suggests a degree of familiarity with the layout or a means of access that bypassed security measures.
The psychological impact on Constable Payesa and her family cannot be understated. The sight of a blood-stained coffin in their yard is a deeply disturbing experience that could have lasting effects. The incident could trigger feelings of fear, anxiety, and vulnerability, requiring support from family, friends, and potentially professional counselling.
The police investigation is not only about solving the crime but also about ensuring the safety and well-being of the family and police are appealing for any information that could assist them in solving this baffling case.
The unusual nature of the incident has attracted significant attention, with many speculating on the possible motives behind the act.
