Online Reporter
Trish Mukwazo, [email protected]
A WARRANT of arrest has been issued against a 22-year-old Bulawayo man who allegedly raped his 13-year-old girlfriend at a lodge.
Clinton Kabvumbura of Cowdray Park suburb was scheduled to appear before Bulawayo regional magistrate Ms Sibonginkosi Mnkandla for the commencement of trial but he defaulted.
Kabvumbura is being charged with two counts of rape and one of kidnapping.
For the State, Ms Nomthandazo Mafu told the court that Kabvumbura and the victim are lovers.
She said the allegations are that on New Year’s Day, Kabvumbura proceeded to the complainant’s place of residence in the central business district where he allegedly took her out with the knowledge of her guardian.
The complainant complied and the two went to a city lodge where they booked a room.
“The accused went with the complainant to a lodge, booked a room, and had sex with the complainant.
However, in terms of the law, the complainant cannot consent to sexual intercourse as she is considered a minor and incapable of making such a decision,” said Ms Mafu.
The court heard that the two repeated the act on another occasion without the knowledge of the complainant’s guardian.
The matter came to light when the complainant later went to the police station where she reported the matter leading to Kabvumbura’s arrest.
The complainant was subsequently referred to the hospital for medical examination.
