Three other people who also drank the beverages were admitted at Chitungwiza Central Hospital and were later discharged.

Ironically, the five were attending the funeral of someone who had died of suspected poisoning.

Police say one person could appear in court over the matter.

The deceased are Godfrey Chitsvete (28) of Warren Park D and Rhoda Magombo (69) of Zengeza 2.

The three who were admitted and discharged from hospital are Jessica Munouya (22), Monica Kuoresa and Silas Mironga (ages not given).

Police had earlier questioned Magombo in connection with Chitsvete’s suspected poisoning but the former was also then allegedly poisoned when she returned to the funeral.

Police spokesperson Inspector James Sabau yesterday confirmed the incident and said investigations were underway. Insp Sabau said Janet Kaoreso (26) and the deceased, Magombo, served Chitsvete tea at around 6am on Sunday.

Chitsvete reportedly had convulsions and vomitted after drinking the tea and died on admission to Chitungwiza Central Hospital. Magombo and Kaoreso were taken in for questioning but were released to attend the funeral.

On returning, Magombo asked for some food and was served with mahewu.

However, she too reportedly succumbed to suspected food poisoning and died at her Zengeza 2 house before she could get medical attention.

Munouya, Kuoresa, and Mironga — who also drank the tea — were discharged after treatment at the hospital.