In a harrowing incident, a 50-year-old man has been remanded in custody at the Chegutu Magistrate’s Court for allegedly ƨǝxuɑlly assaulting his 16-year-old niece.

The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) issued a statement detailing the incident, stating that the accused raped the victim on February 8, 2024. According to the NPAZ, the man lured his niece into his bedroom under the pretence of fetching his socks. Once inside, he forcefully pushed her to the ground and proceeded to rape her.

A relative who witnessed the incident promptly reported it to the accused’s wife, but she chose to ignore the matter. Determined to seek justice, the victim confided in her mother, who was in Rusape at the time. The mother immediately reported the incident to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Rusape, who then collaborated with the ZRP in Chegutu to apprehend the accused.

The accused appeared in court and has been remanded in custody until March 27, 2024. The NPAZ emphasized the importance of reporting all ƨǝxuɑl offences involving minors, urging the public to come forward regardless of the circumstances.