Matebeleland Pulse Reporter
A 44-year-old grandmother has been sentenced to 20 years in prison by the Guruve Magistrates’ Court for sexually abusing her 14-year-old grandson.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) reported that the woman, convicted on two counts of sexual abuse, lured her grandson into her bedroom on two separate occasions between January and February 2025 under the pretense of routine household interactions. “Once inside, she overpowered him and committed sexual acts against his will.”
The abuse was uncovered when the victim’s younger sibling informed their mother of what she had witnessed, prompting the victim to disclose the abuse. This led to a police report. The offender pleaded guilty, and the court found “overwhelming evidence” against her. She received 20 years for each count, with the sentences running concurrently, resulting in a total of 20 years in prison.
The NPAZ underscored the severity of the crime, stating, “These acts are a gross abuse of trust and power. The justice system will continue to protect minors from exploitation. Children deserve safe homes, and families must never become places of fear. Courts will not hesitate to impose long sentences on offenders who violate children’s rights.”
In a separate case, on September 12, 2025, the Plumtree Regional Magistrates’ Court sentenced a 32-year-old man to 20 years in prison for raping an 11-year-old girl in Masendu Village.
According to the NPAZ, on August 8, 2025, “the offender unlawfully entered a hut where three juveniles were sleeping” in the early hours of the morning. “He targeted one of the girls and raped her before fleeing, leaving behind personal items that linked him to the crime.”
The victim immediately informed her parents, who identified the offender and reported him to the police, leading to his arrest and conviction. The court imposed a 20-year sentence, with the NPAZ noting that it reflects “the gravity of the offense and the need to protect children from predatory behavior.”
The NPAZ reaffirmed its commitment to child protection, stating, “Child protection is everyone’s responsibility. The justice system will continue to impose deterrent sentences on those who violate children’s rights.”
These cases highlight the judiciary’s firm stance against child abuse and its commitment to delivering justice for victims.
Picture Credit: WARIF
