By Ndinatsei Mavodza
MASVINGO – A 24-year-old man finds himself facing serious rape charges after sharing sleeping quarters with his 10-year-old step-niece, highlighting the dangers of minors sharing rooms with adult relatives.
The accused (name withheld) appeared before Masvingo regional Magistrate Innocent Bepura on November 26, 2025, accused of raping the young girl while they slept in the same room that also served as a kitchen at their home.
He was remanded to December 2 for continuation of trial.
The court heard that the alleged incidents occurred sometime in April this year, the accused would cover the complainant with a blanket before sexually assaulting her.
The situation came to light on April 26 when the child confided in her niece about the repeated abuse, though police were only notified on June 3, leading to the accused’s arrest.
In his defense, the accused pleaded not guilty, claiming family vendetta saying his brother’s wife did not like him and coached the complainant to lie.
The case took an unusual turn when the victim’s stepfather, (name supplied) who is the accused’s older brother testified as a defense witness, supporting his brother’s innocence.
He told the court that his wife despised the accused because he loved him more than his wife.
However, medical reports presented in court confirmed the child had been sexually assaulted, supporting the state’s case.
The incident underscores the risks associated with children sharing sleeping spaces with adults, particularly in overcrowded living conditions where rooms serve multiple purposes.
Under Zimbabwe’s Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23, sexual crimes against minors are treated with utmost seriousness, recognizing that a child of that age cannot legally give consent.
Liberty Hove Prosecuted.
