Man jailed 15 years for bedding teen

Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau

A 25-year-old man has been jailed for an effective 15 years by the Beitbridge Magistrate Court for sleeping with a juvenile.

The man was convicted on one charge of aggravated indecent assault and another of having sexual intercourse with a child.

In a statement on Wednesday, the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) said the offender had a relationship with the 15-year-old girl.

“He was sentenced to 15 years in jail for aggravated indecent assault and two years for having sexual intercourse with a child. Both sentences will run concurrently,” said NPAZ.

The offender and the complainant were engaged in a relationship last year.
The NPAZ said sometime in December last year, the man inserted his middle finger into the juvenile’s genitals.
After which, the victim confided in her mother, who confronted the man.

The court further heard that on April 13 this year, the accused went to the girl’s home and found her alone.
He then had sexual intercourse with her once and a report was made to the police, who swiftly arrested the man.

“The protection of children is paramount. Creating a safe environment for children empowers them to speak out, ensures their voices are heard, and holds perpetrators accountable. We must play a role in fostering a society where children are free from fear and abuse, allowing them to grow into the best versions of themselves,” said the NPAZ.