A 32-year-old Rusape woman believed to have been suffering from an undisclosed chronic illness for several years allegedly burnt herself to death using paraffin on Saturday, saying she could not endure more pain.
Lenah Vhiriri of Masvingise village in Rusape had been suffering from the disease for several years. On the fateful day, her family was shocked when she allegedly stormed out of her bedroom with her entire body covered in flames after setting herself ablaze.
Manicaland police spokesperson Inspector Enock Chishiri said the incident occurred in the presence of the woman’s close family members and neighbours.
“The deceased had been complaining of the chronic disease saying she had suffered for too long. She was complaining that her health had been deteriorating and was unhappy about her situation,” Chishiri said.
“She left those who had come to see her outside as she proceeded into her bedroom hut where she doused herself with paraffin all over her body. She then lit herself.”
Her family put out the fire and rushed her to hospital where she died on arrival.
