Suspected HIV+ rapist targets schoolgirls

The High Court has denied bail to a Gokwe man accused of raping six schoolgirls aged between six and nine, ruling that he must remain in custody until the conclusion of his trial.

Josephat Makumbe of Mutsanyamate, Mateta 2 in Gokwe, had appealed to the High Court after appearing before the Gokwe regional magistrates court on six counts of rape.

According to court papers, Makumbe and the victims, all pupils at a local primary school, reside in the same village under Chief Sai. His homestead lies along the route the children regularly use to and from school.

The State alleges that in June 2025, the girls passed by Makumbe's home around noon and asked for water. Instead of assisting them, he allegedly lured them into a nearby sorghum field where he raped each one and threatened them into silence.

The matter only came to light in November when one of the victims confided in her aunt, prompting the other girls to disclose their ordeals. Medical examinations conducted at Gokwe Hospital confirmed the assaults, leading to Makumbe's arrest.

In his bail application, Makumbe argued that he was not a flight risk, had a fixed address, and did not possess travel documents. He further offered to relocate from the village to avoid interfering with witnesses. He denied all charges and maintained his innocence.

However, prosecutors opposed bail, citing the likelihood of witness interference since Makumbe and the victims are neighbours. They argued that his release could intimidate the young complainants and compromise their testimony.

Justice Philda Muzofa upheld the State's position, stressing the vulnerability of the victims.

"The complainants are young, vulnerable children. The applicant is an elderly person likely to wield influence. His release, even without direct communication, could affect the children, who are highly impressionable," she ruled.

The judge also noted medical affidavits suggesting interference, adding that while this remains a triable issue, the bail court may consider the strength of the State's case.

"It is the court's considered view that the vulnerable witnesses' evidence can only be safeguarded by keeping the applicant in custody pending trial," she said.

Justice Muzofa acknowledged Makumbe's advanced age and HIV-positive status but held that these factors were outweighed by the gravity of the alleged offences.

"This is a rape case involving six young children from his own village. His advanced age pales in significance when juxtaposed with the crime and the victims," she ruled.

Makumbe's bail application was subsequently dismissed.