CHIPINGE- An 18-year-old woman from Phase 2 Checheche appeared before the Chipinge Magistrates’ Court charged with assault after she allegedly poured boiling water on another woman and struck her with a pot during an argument.
Hilda Gwanya, 18, of Phase 2 Checheche, is charged with assault as defined in Section 89(1)(a) of the Criminal Law [Codification and Reform] Act Chapter 9.23.
Prosecutors allege that, on 25 October, 2026, at around 1800 hours, Gwanya went to the homestead of Marylene Rupava, also 18 and of Phase 2 Checheche, and began shouting at her, accusing her of gossiping.
According to the State outline, a misunderstanding ensued. Gwanya allegedly slapped Rupava once on the left side of the face. She then reportedly took a pot of boiling water from a gas stove and poured it on Rupava’s neck and stomach. Gwanya is also alleged to have hit Rupava twice on the face with the pot.
The State alleges Rupava sustained a deep cut to the forehead and burns as a result of the attack.
A police report was made, leading to Gwanya’s arrest. Rupava was referred to St Peters Hospital for medical examination.
The State alleges Gwanya acted unlawfully and intentionally, intending to cause bodily harm or realising there was a real risk that bodily harm might result.
Gwanya appeared before a magistrate this week. The matter was remanded for further proceedings.
Meanwhile, Police urge members of the public to report disputes to authorities instead of taking the law into their own hands.
