38-Year-Old Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Raping Ex-Wife in Plumtree.
Plumtree, Zimbabwe – In a landmark judgment, the Plumtree Regional Magistrates’ Court has sentenced a 38-year-old man to 15 years in prison for raping his 28-year-old ex-wife in Mphoengs, Plumtree. The harrowing incident, which occurred on January 22, 2021, underscores the persistent issue of gender-based violence (GBV) in the region.
According to court documents, the accused ambushed his ex-wife while she was walking home with friends. He chased away her companions, forcibly leading the victim into a nearby bushy area. There, he produced a knife, threatening her before ordering her to undress. The court heard how the man raped her without protection, subjecting her to both physical and psychological trauma.
Following the assault, the perpetrator forced his ex-wife to accompany him to his home. His intention, as revealed during the trial, was to take her to South Africa against her will. However, during their journey, the accused learned that the victim’s family was actively searching for her. In a bid to evade capture, he borrowed a bicycle and transported her back to her family home. The brave survivor reported the matter to the police, leading to his subsequent arrest and conviction.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) has applauded the survivor’s courage and urged other victims of sexual abuse to come forward and seek justice. In a public statement, NPAZ emphasized, “We encourage survivors of sexual abuse to report abuse and seek justice. #EndGBV #ProtectSurvivors #SayNoToRape.”
The court’s decision sends a strong message against gender-based violence, reinforcing the nation’s stance on combating crime and corruption. Community leaders and advocacy groups have welcomed the sentence, hoping it will deter potential offenders and offer solace to survivors.
As Zimbabwe continues its fight against GBV, this case highlights the critical need for continued support, awareness, and robust legal action to protect vulnerable individuals from abuse and exploitation.-ZimEye