Crimes and Courts
BULAWAYO – An 18-year-old man from Bulawayo’s Suburbs has been sentenced to five years in prison for raping his 11-year-old cousin at knifepoint in a horrific case of sexual abuse.
Western Commonage regional magistrate Mrs. Sibongile Marondedze convicted the teenager, whose identity is withheld to protect the victim, on one count of rape.
While acknowledging the gravity of the crime, the magistrate noted the offender’s youth and first-time offender status as mitigating factors.
“The offense is serious, but considering his age and clean record, he deserves a chance at rehabilitation,” said Marondedze in her Friday ruling.
Prosecutor Mr. Milton Moyo detailed how the accused lured the minor into her brother’s bedroom in Pumula East last November.
“He produced a knife, forced her onto the bed, and raped her four times before threatening her into silence,” Moyo told the court.
The abuse only came to light in January when the family’s domestic worker discovered stained underwear hidden in the toilet.
“Upon confronting the girl after noticing discharge, the truth emerged,” Moyo explained.
Medical examinations confirmed the sexual assault after police intervention. While justice has been served, the case highlights ongoing concerns about child sexual abuse in Zimbabwean communities.
Zim GBC News©️2025