Teen Escapes, Jotsholo Stepdad Jailed for R@pe

In a disturbing case from Jotsholo, according to the statement released by the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe, a 35-year-old man was sentenced to an effective 17 years in prison for repeatedly r@ping his 14-year-old stepdaughter.

The abuse began in December 2024, when the man, left in charge of the victim, assaulted her in their home and threatened her life to keep her silent. The assaults continued until August 2025, when the courageous teenager fled and reported the crimes, leading to his conviction.

“At an unknown date in December 2024, the offender was left in custody of the victim and her younger brother by their mother, who was his lover.

During the night, the offender slipped into the hut where the victim was sleeping, forcibly removed her clothes, and r@ped her. He then threatened to kill the victim if she disclosed the r@pe to anyone.

The abuse continued on several occasions when the mother was not around, until the 3rd of August, when the offender r@ped the victim in his bedroom.

The victim fled from home on the 5th of August 2025 and disclosed the r@pe to her friend, who helped her make a report at a Social Welfare Department,” said the NPA.

The offender was sentenced to 20 years in prison, with 3 years suspended on condition of good behavior.

“R@pe is a serious crime that leaves lifelong scars on victims, and perpetrators of rape have no place in our society. Communities should be vigilant in protecting children,” urged the NPA.