Leading funeral services company, Doves which is accused of burying a coffin without a body in error, and when it became aware of the mistake six months later, it disposed of the body without the knowledge of the dead man’s family have responded saying they are currently carrying out a full investigation on the matter.
Reports has it that the body of Maxwell Chimwamurombe, who died in March this year, it is understood from a drowning incident, was not taken to his rural home in Nyanga, his coffin was empty and because of the Covid-19 there was no body viewing.
The lawyer representing the Chimwamurombe family claims Doves knew within three days of the burial that there was no body in the coffin – but did nothing until August when Maxwell’s remains were given a pauper’s burial at Granville Cemetery.
“We are advised that our client’s relative was either buried in the same coffin with the pauper or buried in the same grave. All circumstances of burial being utterly disrespectful and demeaning the Chimwamurombe family. One cannot rule out ritualism,
“As you might be aware, you have reopened the funeral to our client and a swift resolution of the matter will be greatly appreciated,” the lawyer said in the letter to Doves, dated October 27.
However, Doves responded in a statement saying that they are taking responsibility of the issue.
“The said matter was brought to our attention by one of our employees and we are currently carrying out a full investigation.
“We are fully cognisant of the emotional stress the family is going through and as management we are keen on getting to the bottom of the matter which will ultimately lead to an amicable settlement of the matter.” Doves said in a statement.
