Herdboy kicked by donkey during bestiality

A court in Shurugwi was left stunned after a 28-year-old herd boy, Edison Sibanda, admitted to committing bestiality and made a remark that drew uneasy reactions during proceedings.

Sibanda, of Maredza Farm in Zhaugwe, appeared before Sithabile Zungula, who convicted him on his own plea.

The court heard that the incident occurred on March 6, 2026, around 4pm at Zhaugwe North. Titos Siwela had gone to nearby grazing lands searching for his donkey when he noticed the animal's bell ringing continuously. Upon approaching, he discovered Sibanda engaged in an act of bestiality with the animal.

When confronted, Sibanda initially claimed he was attempting to remove the donkey's bell. However, Siwela reported the matter to Sibanda's employer, leading to a police report and subsequent arrest.

During mitigation, Sibanda told the court he had been intoxicated and admitted he was caught shortly after beginning the act. In a remark that drew shock in the courtroom, he claimed the donkey had kicked him during the incident but he continued regardless.

Magistrate Zungula fined Sibanda US$110, opting against a custodial sentence after noting that he has a minor child and could lose his employment if imprisoned.

The State case was prosecuted by Matidaishe Pavazhira.