Harare Court Correspondent
A 35-year-old man from Chipinge, Manicaland Province has been sentenced to 2 years in prison for having a sexual relationship with a 13-year-old girl from his village.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the accused met the minor at a local shop in February 2024 and proposed a romantic relationship, to which she agreed.
“The accused person took the complainant to his house where they had sexual intercourse twice overnight,” said the NPAZ in a statement.
“The complainant’s cousin discovered that she did not sleep at home and upon enquiry, the complainant revealed that she slept at the accused person’s house and that they had sexual intercourse.”
The accused was sentenced to 3 years in prison, but will only serve 2 years. The law sets the age of consent at 18, and sexual activities with minors are strictly prohibited.
“The law is clear on this, and we will continue to prosecute those who prey on vulnerable children,” said a spokesperson for the NPAZ.
“We urge parents and guardians to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.”
Zim GBC News©2024