By Tendai Makaripe
HWANGE, Zimbabwe – A 45-year-old man from Deka Village in Lupane has been sentenced to 18 years in prison for the rape of a six-year-old girl.
According to the prosecution, the crime occurred in October last year.
The young victim was walking home from school around midday when she encountered the offender, who was in a scotch cart.
He instructed the girl to get into the cart.
Once inside, the man removed the child’s underwear and raped her.
After the assault, he returned her clothing and warned her not to tell anyone.
“Despite the threat, the girl reported the attack to her mother upon arriving home. The mother’s subsequent examination discovered semen on the child, leading to an immediate police report,” read statement from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
Investigators swiftly arrested the suspect.
The NPA commends the courage of the survivor and urges communities to stand against sexual violence.
