Online Reporter
Kimberley Chitambara [email protected]
A 19-year-old Umguza man has been sentenced to complete 560 hours of community service for having sexual intercourse with a 13-year-old girlfriend.
Praise Mudimba of Joyful Farm appeared before Bulawayo regional magistrate, Mr Taurai Manwere, facing a rape charge but he pleaded not guilty to the charge. He was, however, convicted and sentenced to 24 months imprisonment of which eight months were suspended for five years on condition of good behavior.
The remaining 16 months were suspended on condition that he completes 560 hours of community service at ZRP Sauerstown starting on February 23.
Prosecuting, Ms Nomthandazo Mafu, told the court that on December 23 last year and at around 10AM, the accused person went to the victim’s home and asked her to accompany with to a bush and she agreed.
“In the bush, the accused person started kissing her and he removed her pants and skirt and raped her,” said Ms Mafu.
The court heard that after the act the accused person gave the complainant buddie airtime worth US$1 and promised to give her US$10.
Mudimba did not give the complainant the money as he has promised leading the complainant to report rape charges.
The matter was reported at Zimbabwe Republic Police Sauerstown leading to the arrest of the accused person. The minor was referred to Mpilo Central Hospital for medical examination.
In passing the sentence, the magistrate notes that the two were in relationship and the complainant consented to it.
