Online Reporter
The assailant and the victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, knew each other as they both lived on Mutare’s streets
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
A 26-YEAR-OLD Mutare vagabond has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after being convicted of aggravated indecent assault on a 13-year-old minor following a full trial at the Mutare Magistrates’ Court.
John Duri, who lives on the streets of Mutare, was found guilty by Mutare regional magistrate, Mrs Phathekile Msipa after the State, represented by prosecutor Mr Martin Masai, proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.
The offences occurred between March and June this year.
Court proceedings revealed that Duri and the victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, knew each other as they both lived on Mutare’s streets.
On June 2, 2026, Duri reportedly took the minor from Chikanga Rank to an isolated area near the Sakubva River under the pretext of collecting his blankets. The court heard Duri repeatedly subjected the child to sexual abuse during that period.
The victim later reported the matter to officers at Mutare Central Police Station, leading to Duri’s arrest and prosecution. Following the report, the child was referred to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital for medical examination. A medical report compiled after the examination was produced in court as evidence during the trial.
In passing sentence, Mrs Msipa said the court had a duty to protect vulnerable children and send a strong message that sexual offences against minors would not be tolerated.
“You took advantage of a vulnerable child who was already exposed to difficult circumstances and in need of protection. The courts have a responsibility to safeguard the rights and dignity of children. Offences of this nature are serious and require deterrent sentences to protect other children from similar abuse,” said Mrs Msipa.
