Residents of Harare, Zimbabwe, have been left stunned after police arrested a 19-year-old man who allegedly tried to sell a human foetus disguised as beef. The suspect, identified as Stelly Marecha, was taken into custody on Friday, July 4, 2025, after a tip-off about his suspicious activity in the busy Central Business District.

According to a statement from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), Marecha reportedly found the foetus wrapped in a black plastic bag inside a rubbish bin near the corner of Mbuya Nehanda and Albion Streets. Shockingly, he then attempted to sell the remains to a 27-year-old man, insisting it was just beef.

“Police in Harare arrested Stelly Marecha (19) in connection with a case of violating a corpse,” the ZRP said on their official X (formerly Twitter) page. “The suspect allegedly picked a human foetus... and tried to sell the remains, claiming it was beef.”

Authorities have since launched a full investigation to trace who might have dumped the foetus and under what circumstances. The police have appealed to the public for any information that could help locate those responsible.

Meanwhile, news of the grisly incident has sparked outrage and shock across Zimbabwe, particularly on social media. Many expressed horror at the thought of buying meat from informal vendors without knowing its true source. Others reacted with dark humour, calling it “boiled witchcraft,” a reflection of just how deeply disturbed the public has been by the bizarre episode.

As investigations continue, police are urging residents to remain cautious and report any suspicious activities in their communities. This incident serves as a chilling reminder to always be vigilant—both for personal safety and public health.