In a shocking case heard at a Bulawayo court, it has been revealed that a 72-year-old man allegedly engaged in disturbing acts against his own 8-year-old granddaughter.
Joseph Manyota faces charges of indecent assault following accusations that he repeatedly removed the young girl’s clothes and touched her private parts.
During the period from June to October 28, 2023, Manyota is said to have committed these acts on numerous occasions. The court heard that upon the girl’s return from school, he would approach her in the living room, undress her, and touch her private parts and buttocks. Disturbingly, Manyota reportedly justified his actions by telling the girl in Shona, “ndokuti ukurumidze kukura,” implying that such acts would aid in her growth.
The matter came to light on October 28 when the brave granddaughter defied her grandfather’s threats and confided in her grandmother about the distressing experiences she had endured. It was revealed that Manyota took advantage of his granddaughter while the grandmother was occupied in the garden, repeatedly subjecting her to these acts upon her return from school.
In court, Magistrate Nomalanga Maphosa granted Manyota bail in the amount of US$100. However, as part of his bail conditions, he was ordered to no longer reside in the same house as the young girl and to report to Mzilikazi Police Station every two weeks.
The case has been remanded to November 9, 2023, as further investigations and legal proceedings unfold.
