Teacher arrested for alleged sexual abuse of Grade Seven pupil in Binga
A 46-year-old teacher from Binga is facing charges of sexual abuse after allegedly assaulting a Grade Seven pupil. Kerias Munkombwe, stationed at Chalumba Primary School, was brought before Binga resident magistrate Victor Mpofu to answer rape charges. The accused, who did not enter a plea, has been remanded in custody until March 11.
The incident is said to have occurred on December 3, 2023, at approximately 1 pm. According to the allegations, Munkombwe sent the complainant, whose identity is being withheld for legal reasons, to his house to collect exercise books and deliver them to the school administration office. The unsuspecting pupil complied and went to the teacher’s residence.
Upon arrival, Munkombwe entered the house, closed the door, and forcefully grabbed the complainant’s right hand, pulling her closer to him. Shockingly, he proceeded to remove her clothes and placed her on his blankets, face up, allegedly subjecting her to ƨǝxuɑl assault.
The traumatized victim confided in her friends, who then reported the incident to their parents. The matter was subsequently reported to the police, leading to a thorough investigation that resulted in Munkombwe’s arrest.
These distressing reports of inappropriate teacher behaviour towards students, particularly teenagers, are becoming increasingly prevalent in schools across the country. Instances range from offensive comments about students’ physical appearance to more severe acts, including kissing and forced ƨǝxuɑl acts. More troubling is the fact that many of these stories often go unnoticed, especially in rural areas where resources and attention may be limited.
The arrest of Munkombwe highlights the urgent need for schools and educational authorities to prioritize the safety and well-being of students. Every child deserves the right to attend school without fear of abuse, and it is crucial that appropriate measures are in place to prevent and address such incidents effectively.
