ZIMSPHERE
HARARE – In a harrowing case brought before the Harare Magistrates' Court, a 14-year-old Form 2 pupil from Harare was reportedly raped by four men in October 2024. While one of the accused has been convicted and sentenced to 15 years in prison, the other three have been acquitted, a decision that the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) is currently reviewing for possible appeal.
The incident occurred after the girl left her home in the evening of October 20, 2024, following an argument with her mother. Seeking refuge for the night, she was lured to the home of the first accused, a 30-year-old man, who promised her accommodation.
Upon arrival, she encountered three other men, aged 34, 36, and 30.
According to court testimony, the four men threatened the girl with a knife, physically assaulted her using a hosepipe, and spiked her drink with an unknown substance that rendered her unconscious. Taking advantage of her incapacitated state, the men allegedly took turns sexually assaulting her.
The next morning, the victim awoke in the first accused’s home, physically injured and bearing visible evidence of the assault. She later confided in her aunt, who helped her report the crime to the police. A subsequent medical examination corroborated her account of the assault.
During the trial, the first accused was found guilty of rape and received a 15-year prison sentence.
However, the remaining three accused individuals were acquitted at the close of the state’s case due to insufficient evidence.
The NPAZ has expressed dissatisfaction with the acquittals and is currently considering filing an appeal to challenge the court’s decision regarding the three accomplices.
.jpg)
.jpg)
0 Comments