A Bulawayo woman has been remanded in custody after allegedly dousing her sister’s maid with boiling water in what prosecutors have called a “vicious and senseless attack.”

Privilege Moyo, 38, of Emganwini suburb, appeared before Western Commonage magistrate Archie Wochiwunga on charges of physical abuse.

Prosecutor Audrey Kufandikanwe told the court that the shocking incident took place on 28 August. Moyo allegedly stormed into the kitchen, seized a pot of boiling water, and poured it over the unsuspecting maid, Bethia Moyo, without any provocation.

“The accused suddenly grabbed a pot of boiling water and poured it on Bethia Moyo without provocation,” Kufandikanwe said. The victim suffered severe burns to her face and chest and was rushed to the United Bulawayo Hospitals, where she is still receiving treatment.

Magistrate Wochiwunga ordered that Privilege Moyo be remanded in custody until 17 September and undergo psychiatric evaluation by two independent doctors to assess her mental state at the time of the attack.

Police confirmed that the matter was reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, who swiftly arrested the accused. Investigations are ongoing.