Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba [email protected]
A 32-year-old Gweru man has been jailed for 21 years after attacking and raping a 24-year-old hairdresser on her way to work before stealing US$60 from her.
Prince Kwidini of Plot 2, Hibiscus, Gweru, was convicted of rape and robbery following a full trial before Gweru Regional Magistrate Mr Christopher Maturure. He was sentenced to 18 years for rape and a further three years for robbery.
Prosecutor Ms Eggrina Matutu told the court that on September 10, Kwidini targeted the woman as she walked towards Gweru’s central business district.
The court heard that Kwidini approached the woman near a junction close to Sheasham, introduced himself as Tafadzwa and asked for her phone number.
When she refused, Kwidini allegedly turned violent.
He grabbed her by the collar, punched her several times and struck her on the head with a stick, the court heard. Kwidini then allegedly dragged the woman to the roadside, where he forced her to lie on a heap of soil before raping her.
After the attack, he searched her handbag, stole US$60 and fled. The woman reported the matter at ZRP Gweru Central and was taken to Gweru Provincial Hospital for medical examination.
A medical report was produced in court as part of the State’s evidence.
Kwidini, who had pleaded not guilty to both charges, was subsequently arrested and brought before the court.
