Sundaymail Editor
Online Reporter
The High Court has overturned a 12-month custodial sentence for a man whose arrest came after his sexual relations with a minor were revealed during a funeral.
The sexual offence came to light after the victim’s aunt claimed the outstanding compensation negotiated by her deceased brother following the sexual abuse of a minor.
Anesu Bhobho (25) was previously convicted of raping his 15-year-old girlfriend and was initially sentenced to 24 months in prison.
The court set aside 12 months of his sentence and he was left with an effective 12-month jail term.
However, upon review of the matter by High Court judge, Justice Joel Mambara, the court decided to replace this custodial sentence with 420 hours of community service.
Justice Mambara considered that Bhobho was a youthful offender with the potential for rehabilitation.
It was the State’s case that sometime in July 2022, Bhobho and his teen girlfriend engaged in consensual sexual relations on four occasions.
After the incident came to light, Bhobho and the girl’s father reached a private settlement and chose to sweep the matter under the carpet.
The girl’s father, however, died in January 2025.
During the man’s funeral, the girl’s aunt revealed the compensation arrangement between Bhobho and the girl’s father.
She went on to ask for the balance.
The revelation prompted relatives to make an official complaint, leading to Bhobho’s arrest and subsequent conviction.
Online Reporter