An 81-year-old grandfather, Mbokota of Ranganai Village Chief Neshuro, Mwenezi, appeared before Magistrate Judith Zuyu on Tuesday facing rape allegations. The shocking incident allegedly occurred on August 4th, 2024.
The state alleges that Mbokota, who is the grandfather of the complainant’s father, was caught in the act by the child’s mother, Edina Marandera (19).
In her testimony, Marandera stated that she heard her child crying from Mbokota’s bedroom. Upon rushing in, she was met with a horrifying sight: Mbokota, with his trousers around his knees, holding the two-year-old girl with both hands.
“He was allegedly forcing his manhood into the complainant’s private parts,” the state prosecutor, Tanyaradzwa Tinagwo, told the court.
Marandera confronted Mbokota, demanding an explanation for his actions. However, he remained silent, simply handing over the child’s trousers. Marandera, in her shock, took her child but noticed that the child’s pants were missing.
Mbokota, in his defence, vehemently denied the allegations, claiming that his age and physical condition made the accusations impossible. “My private parts no longer function, so how can I rape?” he questioned the court.
In her testimony, Marandera stated that she had no reason to lie against Mbokota. She explained that she often helped him with chores like washing his clothes and fetching water, and in return, he would give her money as a token of appreciation.
Despite Mbokota’s claims, the court remanded him in custody for the continuation of the trial.
