Sidumisile Mabena
Kimberley Chitambara
A 23-YEAR-OLD Nkayi man who engaged in sexual intercourse with a 13–year–old girl has been sentenced to 630 hours of community service.
Khulani Nkomo of Mtshatshane Village was convicted of having sexual intercourse with a young person by Bulawayo regional magistrate Mr Mark Dzira.
Nkomo was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment of which six months were suspended for five years on condition that he does not commit a similar offence during that period. The remaining 18 months were suspended on condition that he completes 630 hours of community service.
Prosecuting, Mr Jethro Mada told the courts that on July 30 at around 11PM, Nkomo lured the girl complainant to his homestead.
“Nkomo and the complainant were reportedly in a relationship at that time. However, the court noted that the complainant is a minor at law, she cannot consent to sex,” said Mr Mada.
The court heard that, the two spent the entire night together and during which they engaged in sex.
The matter came to light three days when the complainant revealed the matter to her mother after she quizzed the girl on her whereabouts.
A report was made to the police leading to Nkomo’s arrest. The complainant was subsequently referred to Nkayi District Hospital for medical examination.
Online Reporter
Where are the Girl Child Activists? This is rape at its worst! A 13 year old cannot consent to sex, so is a five year old. They fall into the same bracket of “minor”. Now are we saying if this man had sex with a five year old he would be given the same punishment? Please make us understand here. Who is regarded as a minor at law?