Gardener attempts to rape maid

A 49-YEAR-OLD gardener from Kingsdale suburb in Bulawayo appeared before the courts facing charges of allegedly attempting to rape a 22-year-old woman who was also employed as a maid at his place of residence.

For the offence Lovemore Jongwe was brought before Bulawayo magistrate, Sibongile Msipa to answer charges of attempted rape. He was however, not asked to plead and was remanded in custody to 2 October. Jongwe was also advised to apply for bail at the High court.

The magistrate heard that Jongwe courted trouble after he allegedly turned villain and attempted to force himself on his workmate whom he had worked with for a long time.

It is the State's case that on 15 September the two were left alone at the house by their employer. It is alleged that around 8am Jongwe got into the house where the victim was still busy attending to her household chores.

The court heard that Jongwe proceeded to the lounge and stood for a few seconds before he made a U-turn and stood next to the complainant, who was still cleaning.

It is said Jongwe started fondling the complainant's breasts and all over the body.

Before the complainant could understand what her colleague was up to, Jongwe silently unzipped his trousers and at the same time lifted up the complainant's skirts.

Jongwe held the complainant tightly against his body and also closed her mouth with his left hand. He made several movements for a couple of minutes but he failed to penetrate.

Jongwe after his efforts hit a brick wall later released the complainant warning her not to tell anyone of the incident.

The victim however, narrated the ordeal to her friend who advised her to report to the police. A report was made at Queens Park Police Station, leading to Jongwe's arrest.