Staff Reporter
MBERENGWA — A 23-year-old Mberengwa man has been sentenced to 17 years in prison after being convicted of raping a 29-year-old woman twice in a bush.
Nkululeko Moyo of Mapfumo Village under Chief Mutevaidze was convicted on two counts of rape following a full trial at the Zvishavane Regional Magistrates’ Court.
Regional Magistrate Tayengwa Sangster handed down the sentence after finding Moyo guilty.
The court heard that on May 19 last year, around 3 a.m., Moyo and the woman, who was a sex worker, agreed to spend the night together at his house for a fee.
While they were walking, Moyo allegedly broke an empty beer bottle and demanded money from her.
When she told him she had no money, Moyo allegedly dragged her into a nearby bush, forced her to undress, and raped her.
After the first assault, Moyo ordered the woman to get dressed and walk with him for about 100 metres before allegedly forcing her to undress again and raping her a second time.
Following the second assault, Moyo ordered the woman to get dressed and accompany him.
The court heard that while they were walking, they heard voices approaching from behind, prompting Moyo to flee the scene.
The woman reported the matter to the local police station and was referred to Mberengwa Hospital for a medical examination.
This led to Moyo’s arrest and subsequent conviction.
Isheanopa Mashayanye appeared for the State.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe condemned all acts of sexual and gender-based violence, stating that perpetrators who use force and intimidation will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
The NPAZ also urged members of the public to report cases of sexual abuse to ensure that justice is served.
