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By Priscilla Mafa
A 32-year-old man from Mberengwa has been sentenced to 30 years’ imprisonment after being convicted of raping two children in a case that underscores Zimbabwe’s continued efforts to combat sexual offences against minors.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the offences occurred on 19 February 2026 when three children were on their way to school. Court proceedings heard that the accused lured the children to a secluded area under false pretences before sexually assaulting two of them.
The incident was subsequently reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, triggering investigations that led to the suspect’s arrest and prosecution. During the trial, evidence presented before the court resulted in the man’s conviction, with the Gwanda Magistrates’ Court imposing a 30-year custodial sentence.
The sentence has been welcomed as another demonstration of the justice system’s commitment to protecting children and holding perpetrators of sexual violence accountable.
In a statement following the conviction, the National Prosecuting Authority condemned crimes of sexual abuse against children and reiterated its commitment to prosecuting offenders.
“The NPAZ strongly condemns all forms of sexual abuse, especially offences committed against children. Offenders will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” the authority said.
The prosecution authority also urged members of the public to report cases of sexual abuse to the police or other relevant authorities to ensure survivors receive justice and support.
“The NPAZ urges victims and members of the public to report such crimes to ensure justice is served,” the statement added.
The conviction serves as a reminder of the importance of timely reporting, thorough investigations and coordinated action by justice institutions to protect vulnerable members of society.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the offences occurred on 19 February 2026 when three children were on their way to school. Court proceedings heard that the accused lured the children to a secluded area under false pretences before sexually assaulting two of them.
The incident was subsequently reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, triggering investigations that led to the suspect’s arrest and prosecution. During the trial, evidence presented before the court resulted in the man’s conviction, with the Gwanda Magistrates’ Court imposing a 30-year custodial sentence.
The sentence has been welcomed as another demonstration of the justice system’s commitment to protecting children and holding perpetrators of sexual violence accountable.
In a statement following the conviction, the National Prosecuting Authority condemned crimes of sexual abuse against children and reiterated its commitment to prosecuting offenders.
“The NPAZ strongly condemns all forms of sexual abuse, especially offences committed against children. Offenders will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” the authority said.
The prosecution authority also urged members of the public to report cases of sexual abuse to the police or other relevant authorities to ensure survivors receive justice and support.
“The NPAZ urges victims and members of the public to report such crimes to ensure justice is served,” the statement added.
The conviction serves as a reminder of the importance of timely reporting, thorough investigations and coordinated action by justice institutions to protect vulnerable members of society.
Published
June 30, 2026 at 8:30 AM
