Online Reporter
Musawenkosi Moyo
NEIGHBOURS are often considered extended family, a source of comfort and aid in times of need, and can sometimes shatter that trust in the most devastating ways.
This was at play when a 58-year-old man from Rangemore suburb in Bulawayo was arrested for allegedly indecently assaulting his neighbour’s 11-year-old daughter.
Tinashe Mafarirano appeared before Western Commonage magistrate Archie Wochiwunga facing one count of indecent assault.
He was not asked to plead, and the matter was remanded to 18 March 2025.
Allegations levelled against him are that on an unknown day but sometimes in December 2024 in Rangemore suburb and at around 12pm the complainant was at her home when Mafarirano approached her and asked for 10 litres of water.
It was heard that the complainant took five litres of water to the accused’s house and went back to her home to take the remaining five litres.
When the minor returned with the other five litres of water, Mafarirano asked her younger brother to remain outside and told the complainant to follow him.
It is alleged that he led the minor girl into his bedroom, where he proceeded to fondle her breasts.
The minor girl narrated the ordeal to her mother, who then reported the matter to the police, leading to the arrest of the accused.
derick.khumalo