By Evans Zhou
GWANDA— The Gwanda regional court sentenced a 35-year-old man to 15 years in prison for attempting to rape his 9-year-old niece.
The attack occurred on June 28 when the man entered a bedroom where the child and her mother were sleeping.
He took the girl to his room and threatened her to keep quiet, then attempted to sexually assault her. The attempt ended when he heard footsteps and the child’s mother approached, according to a statement by the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe.
The girl immediately left the room and told her mother what happened.
The family reported the crime to the police the same day.
Authorities took the child to Maphisa Hospital for a medical examination, evidence that supported the conviction, NPAZ said.
The court then imposed a 15-year custodial sentence.
“This case serves as a stark reminder of our duty to protect the most vulnerable members of our society,” the NPAZ said.
“The swift action of the family and law enforcement led to a just outcome.”
The NPAZ “urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of child abuse,” adding, “The safety of our children is a collective responsibility.”
Zimbabwean law criminalises sexual violence against children.
Prosecutors said prompt reporting, medical evidence and coordinated investigations remain critical to securing convictions and protecting survivors.
