Online Reporter
Dalyn Chigwizura, Court Writer
A 34-year-old Bulawayo man who defied a court order by failing to pay maintenance for his minor child, accumulating arrears of US$210, has been sentenced to six months in prison.
Takaedza Togarepi of Mahatshula North suburb was convicted on his own plea of guilty to failure to pay maintenance by Western Commonage magistrate Mr Jeconia Prince Ncube.
He was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment, with three months suspended for three years on condition he does not commit a similar offence during that period. The remaining three months were suspended on condition he pays US$120 in outstanding arrears on or before January 16.
Prosecuting, Ms Cathrine Kuzu told the court that on 7 July, Togarepi was ordered by the Western Commonage Magistrates’ Court to pay US$70 per month towards the upkeep of his child following an application by his former wife, Ms Thendani Ndlovu (34).
The maintenance order required Togarepi to make monthly payments until the child reaches the age of 18.
However, the court heard that Togarepi defaulted from July 30, failing to make consistent payments up to November 30, resulting in arrears of US$210. A police report was subsequently filed, leading to his arrest and appearance in court.
In an unrelated matter, a 48-year-old Bulawayo man was fined US$120 for assaulting his wife following a domestic dispute.
Never Moyo of Emthunzini suburb appeared before Mr Ncube, who convicted him of physical abuse. He was given until January 16, 2026 to pay the fine, failing which he will serve 30 days in prison.
Prosecuting, Ms Kuzu told the court that the incident occurred on December 17. She said Moyo’s wife, Miriam Ncube (34), arrived home around 7pm from piece jobs when the accused questioned her whereabouts and became violent, slapping her twice on the head.
The court heard that the complainant fled the house and sought refuge at a neighbour’s home before reporting the matter to the police, leading to Moyo’s arrest.
