On the run after terminating pregnancy

Lovemore Kadzura
Rusape Correspondent

POLICE have launched a manhunt for a Nyazura shop attendant who was convicted for aborting her pregnancy, before absconding court the day she was supposed to be sentenced.

 

Rutendo Dhlakama (22) pleaded guilty to unlawful termination of pregnancy when she recently appeared before Rusape magistrate, Mr Gift Manyika.

She was remanded to a later date for sentencing to allow the State to furnish the court with medical reports.

However, she absconded court on the date she was set to re-appear in court.

Public prosecutor, Mr Innocent Mwoyowaonda said Dhlakama threw the foetus in a pit latrine, adding that the offence only came to light after someone tipped the police.

“Accused person is a female adult residing at Shungudzemoyo Business Complex in Nyazura and is employed at the same complex as a sales lady.

“On July 5, Sergeant Chimbazaza of ZRP Nyazura received a tip-off from an informer that she had discovered a dead foetus dumped in a female pit latrine at the complex.

“Police attended the scene and retrieved the foetus from the latrine. Further investigations were made, thereby leading to Dhlakama’s arrest. Police recovered two empty cartridges of family planning control pills and a bloodstained bucket from Dhlakama’s room,” said Mr Mwoyowaonda.

The foetus was conveyed to Rusape General Hospital mortuary for post mortem, while Dhlakama was sent to the same hospital for medical examinations.