Crimes and Courts Correspondent
A 26-year-old man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for raping a 17-year-old girl whom he was supposed to assist seek employment.
The Western Commonage Magistrates’ Court in Bulawayo handed down the ruling on Friday.
“The accused preyed on the victim’s vulnerability and desperation for a job,” said the Presiding Magistrate.
“His actions are a stark reminder of the dangers faced by young job seekers.”
The incident occurred in March 2024 when the victim posted a message in a WhatsApp group seeking employment. The accused responded, falsely claiming that his grandmother needed a house helper in Cowdray Park suburb.
The perpetrator met the girl and took her to his grandmother the following morning since it was already late. He took her to his residence in Mpopoma were he forced himself unto her three times during the night.
The girl reported the matter in the morning leading to the arrest of the perpetrator.
“I thought it was a genuine job offer,” said the victim. “But instead, he raped me multiple times. I’m relieved that justice has been served.”
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe welcomed the conviction, saying, “This case highlights the importance of protecting young people from predators who exploit their vulnerability.”
The accused’s actions were described as “heinous” and “despicable” by the court, which emphasized the need for harsh punishment to deter similar crimes.
“The sentence reflects the severity of the crime and serves as a warning to those who prey on the vulnerable,” said the magistrate.
Zim GBC News©2024