A 19-year-old individual has been detained in Harare’s Central Business District, Zimbabwe, for allegedly trying to sell a human foetus while claiming it was beef. The suspect, named Stelly Marecha, was apprehended on Friday, 4 July 2025, after authorities received a tip about his suspicious actions.
According to a statement issued by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) through their official X account, Marecha allegedly recovered the foetus from a rubbish bin located near the corner of Mbuya Nehanda and Albion Streets. It was reportedly concealed in a black plastic bag. The police claim he then attempted to sell the remains to a 27-year-old man, asserting it was beef.
“Police in Harare arrested Stelly Marecha (19) in connection with a case of violating a corpse. The suspect allegedly picked a human foetus, which was wrapped in a black plastic bag in a bin at the corner of Mbuya Nehanda and Albion Streets, Harare CBD. He attempted to sell the remains to a 27-year-old man, claiming that it was beef,” the police statement read.
Officials have initiated an investigation to determine the source of the foetus and are encouraging the public to provide any pertinent information. “Meanwhile, the ZRP is appealing for information which may lead to the arrest of the suspect responsible for disposing of the foetus,” the statement added.
The incident triggered widespread shock and outrage on social media, with Zimbabweans expressing dismay over the disturbing discovery. Some raised concerns about the safety of purchasing meat from informal vendors, while others responded with dark humor, referring to the act as “boiled witchcraft.”
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
