Chronicle Editor
Thupeyo Muleya, [email protected]
A 53 YEAR-OLD cross-border transporter in Beitbridge who sexually abused his 16-year-old daughter for ritual purposes resulting in the girl falling pregnant, was yesterday sentenced to 41 years in jail.
The man’s wife who is aged 47 years, was last year jailed for an effective four years for trying to protect her husband.
The offence came to light when the girl’s mother tried to administer some medication to induce abortion resulting in the victim falling ill.
The rapist was yesterday convicted of rape by Beitbridge regional magistrate, Mr Innocent Bepura.
He will serve an effective 36 years in jail after the magistrate suspended five years on condition that he does not within that period commit a similar offence.
In passing sentence, Mr Bepura said the court wanted to send a clear message to would-be rapists that society abhors rape.
“Rape is a serious offence against women and in this case, it’s even worse because you raped your own child for ritual purposes. Instead of being a protector of your children you decided to be the abuser.
“This court will not tolerate such violent behaviour against children and women. We need to send a strong message to would-be offenders by sending you away for a long period,” said Mr Bepura.
In mitigation, through his lawyer, Mr Muchineripi Nhire, the man pleaded for lenience saying he was the sole breadwinner looking after his five children who are all of school-going age.
He also told the court that he was of ill health having been diagnosed with hypertension and a heart ailment.
— @tupeyo
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Online Reporter