News / National
22‑year‑old Centenary man jailed for sexual offence against minor
2 hrs ago |
118 Views
The Mt Darwin Regional Magistrates' Court has sentenced a 22‑year‑old man from Centenary to 36 months in prison after he was convicted of having sexual intercourse with a 13‑year‑old girl.
According to a National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) bulletin released on 23 April 2026, the offence occurred in June 2025 in a village in Centenary.
The court heard that the man entered into a so‑called "relationship" with the minor, with the incidents taking place on three separate occasions at an abandoned homestead.
The case came to light in December 2025 after the girl returned from Harare. Her grandmother noticed physical changes and, upon questioning, the minor disclosed she was pregnant. A medical examination confirmed both the pregnancy and the sexual assault.
During proceedings, the offender initially claimed he believed the girl was 18 years old, but he later pleaded guilty.
He was sentenced to 36 months' imprisonment, with six months suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour.
In its bulletin, the NPAZ emphasised that the law is designed to protect children from exploitation and that ignorance of a child's age is not a defence. The Authority reminded the public that any "consensual" act with a minor remains a serious criminal offence.
"Parents and guardians are encouraged to remain vigilant," the bulletin stated. "Protection of minor children remains a national priority."
According to a National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) bulletin released on 23 April 2026, the offence occurred in June 2025 in a village in Centenary.
The court heard that the man entered into a so‑called "relationship" with the minor, with the incidents taking place on three separate occasions at an abandoned homestead.
The case came to light in December 2025 after the girl returned from Harare. Her grandmother noticed physical changes and, upon questioning, the minor disclosed she was pregnant. A medical examination confirmed both the pregnancy and the sexual assault.
He was sentenced to 36 months' imprisonment, with six months suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour.
In its bulletin, the NPAZ emphasised that the law is designed to protect children from exploitation and that ignorance of a child's age is not a defence. The Authority reminded the public that any "consensual" act with a minor remains a serious criminal offence.
"Parents and guardians are encouraged to remain vigilant," the bulletin stated. "Protection of minor children remains a national priority."
Source - Byo24News
Join the discussion
Loading comments…
