By Shyline Majaji
A 33-year-old man from Filabusi has been sentenced to an effective 20 years in prison after being convicted on two counts of sexually assaulting two juvenile sisters aged three years and seven months.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the sentence was handed down by the Gwanda Magistrates’ Court.
“The court sentenced the offender to 20 years’ imprisonment for each count. The sentences will run concurrently, leaving an effective 20-year prison term,” NPAZ said.
The offences occurred on February 24, 2026, in the Chief Maduna area of Filabusi.
Prosecutors told the court that the children’s mother had left her daughters at home around 11am while she went to work in nearby fields.
“On 24 February 2026, at around 1100 hours, the victim’s mother left the three-year-old and her seven-month-old baby sister at their homestead in the Chief Maduna area of Filabusi while she went to work in the nearby fields,” the State said.
While working, the mother reportedly heard one of the children crying and rushed back home, where she allegedly found the accused at the scene.
Upon her return, she noticed that the children’s clothing had been disturbed and observed physical signs suggesting they had been assaulted.
“Upon arrival, she noticed that the children’s clothes had been tampered with, and the offender was caught at the scene with his clothing completely disarranged.
She also discovered physical evidence of the assault on the victims,” NPAZ said.
The matter was immediately reported to the police, and the children were taken to Filabusi District Hospital for medical examination.
“The matter was reported to the police, and the victims were referred to Filabusi District Hospital for medical examination,” the authority said.
In a statement following the conviction, NPAZ said the sentence demonstrates the judiciary’s commitment to protecting children from abuse and exploitation.
“The justice system remains resolute in protecting the most vulnerable members of society, particularly children, from heinous predators,” NPAZ said.
“Exploitation and abuse against infants and juveniles constitute a grave violation of human dignity, and the law will continue to impose stiff, uncompromising custodial sentences to ensure justice is served.”
The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement and the courts to combat crimes against children and ensure offenders face severe penalties.
