Raymond Jaravaza, Zimpapers Reporter
A Bulawayo man has been sentenced to 17 years in prison for the attempted rape of a nine-year-old at the back of a toilet in Selbourne Park suburb.
The 59 year old, who will not be named to protect the identity of the victim – was convicted by the Bulawayo Magistrates’ Court.
“In the early hours of 12 September 2026, the victim was on her way to the toilet when the offender followed her, grabbed her and dragged her to the back of the toilet before pinning her down.
“The offender instructed her to lie on the ground facing upwards, removed her underwear and lowered his trousers,” said the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) in a statement.
When the girl tried to scream, the offender covered her mouth with his hand.
“He was interrupted by the victim’s stepmother, who found them at the
scene and alerted the victim’s father,” said NPAZ.
The matter was reported to the police leading to the arrest and subsequent conviction of the offender.
“NPAZ strongly condemns all forms of sexual violence, particularly those perpetrated against children and urges members of the public to report such cases to the relevant authorities.
“Perpetrators of sexual offences will be held accountable and face the full force of the law,”
