Woman jailed 5 years for trafficking day-old baby

A Harare magistrate has sentenced a woman to five years imprisonment after she was convicted of trafficking a two-day-old baby from South Africa to Zimbabwe.

Janet Maromo was found guilty of violating the Trafficking in Persons Act by illegally transporting the infant across the borders of the two neighbouring countries. The court heard that the biological mother of the baby had sold the newborn to Maromo for an undisclosed amount, after which Maromo took the child from South Africa into Zimbabwe.

In delivering the sentence, the presiding magistrate acknowledged several special circumstances, including Maromo's alleged ignorance of adoption laws in both countries. The court also considered Maromo's lack of sophistication in the matter, as well as the influence of the biological mother in persuading her to carry out the illegal act.

Despite these factors, the court determined that the offence was serious, and Maromo was sentenced to serve an effective five years in prison. The judgment reflects the severity of human trafficking offenses, with particular attention to the protection of vulnerable minors.

Maromo's actions highlight the ongoing issue of child trafficking in Southern Africa, where the illegal trade of minors continues to be a challenge for law enforcement agencies. Despite the circumstances surrounding the case, the court's decision underscores the importance of upholding the law to prevent such crimes and protect children from exploitation.