Online Reporter
Solomon Bhumu
Post Reporter
A ZIMUNYA villager will rue the day he became intimate with his 14-year-old niece after a Mutare court sentenced him to three years behind bars for forcing himself on the minor at their shared residence.
Dumisani Makamani (30) of Gopito Village under Chief Zimunya appeared before Mutare magistrate Mr Tendai Mahwe facing charges of violating Section 75(2)(c) of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act, Chapter 9:23.
Mrs Sharon Mlambo prosecuted.
It was the State’s case that between April and June this year, got into a sexual relationship with his sister’s 14-year-old daughter.
“Makamani is the biological brother of the complainant’s mother, and both resided at the same homestead during the period in question. The accused initiated a romantic relationship with the complainant earlier this year.
“The matter came to light when the complainant’s mother noticed signs of possible pregnancy and confronted her daughter. After initially refusing to open up, mother threatened to involve police in the matter. The following day Makamani confessed to the relationship with her uncle. She said he had promised to marry her,” said Mrs Mlambo.
When Makaman was confronted, he admitted to the affair; claiming that it was consensual.
A formal report was filed at ZRP Mutare Rural on June 26 and the complainant was subsequently referred to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital for medical examination.
Makamani was sentenced to 36 months imprisonment, with 12 of those suspended on customary conditions.
He will serve an effective 24-month custodial term, with the court emphasising that his actions breached the legal boundaries designed to protect minors and uphold family integrity.
