Zezani man jailed 15 years for rape

The Beitbridge Regional Magistrates’ Court has sentenced 19‑year‑old Stanly Sebata of Zezani to 15 years in prison after he was convicted of raping a 21‑year‑old woman.


The court heard that on 19 July 2024, at around 11pm, the victim was walking home after work when Sebata approached her and proposed to her. After she rejected his advances, he followed her to her homestead and attacked her.

The woman briefly escaped to her mother’s house, but Sebata forced his way inside and continued the assault. He threatened her with a knife, preventing her from calling for help.

He then forced her to a nearby structure, where he raped her twice. Sebata later fell asleep, allowing the victim to flee and alert her family. Police were notified, leading to his arrest.

Medical examination results were presented in court as part of the evidence.

The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) said rape is a serious offence with lasting physical, emotional and psychological effects, adding that it remains committed to the swift prosecution of sexual violence cases. The authority also urged the public to report such crimes promptly.