In a disturbing incident that has sent shockwaves through Chimanimani, a 21-year-old man from Chief Ngorima area appeared before the Chipinge Magistrates’ Court, facing charges of having ƨǝxuɑl intercourse with a young person. The accused person’s actions have left the community reeling, as details of the harrowing incident emerged during the trial.
In a chilling account presented by the prosecution, it was revealed that on April 23, 2024, a 14-year-old complainant was making her way home from Charles Wood Business Centre when she encountered the accused person on a footpath. Disturbingly, the accused person had previously expressed romantic interest in the young girl.
On that fateful day, he confronted her, blocking her path and demanding an answer to his proposal. Despite the complainant’s clear disinterest, he forcibly dragged her into a nearby bush, where he subjected her to a horrifying act of rape before callously walking away.
Shaken and traumatized, the young girl continued her journey home, concealing the heinous assault she had endured. However, on May 6, 2024, her mother, returning from Harare, noticed a noticeable limp in her daughter’s gait, prompting her to inquire about the cause. It was at this moment of anguish and revelation that the complainant disclosed the painful truth — she had been raped by the accused person. The heart-wrenching revelation led to immediate action, as the matter was reported to the police, ultimately resulting in the arrest of the perpetrator.
During the proceedings, the Court acknowledged the existence of a relationship between the complainant and the accused person. However, this did not absolve the accused person of his criminal actions. Based on the provisions outlined in Section 70 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform Act), the Court convicted the accused person of “having ƨǝxuɑl intercourse with a young person.”
The accused person was sentenced to 18 months of imprisonment, with 6 months suspended. Additionally, 12 months were further suspended on the condition that he completes 420 hours of community service.
