Harare man accused of raping niece 3 times

A 60-year-old Harare man has appeared in court facing three counts of rape after allegedly sexually assaulting his 16-year-old niece on separate occasions between April and October this year.

The accused allegedly used threats and physical force to have sexual intercourse with the teenager without her consent, according to the State.

The court heard that the first incident occurred in mid-April when the man allegedly called the complainant to his bedroom under the pretext of asking her to prepare bathing water for him.

After bathing, he reportedly summoned her back to his bedroom, fondled her breasts and kissed her before allegedly overpowering and raping her.

Towards the end of April, the accused allegedly called the teenager into his bedroom again and fondled her breasts. When she resisted, he reportedly reminded her that he was paying her school fees before allegedly slapping her twice and sexually assaulting her.

The third alleged incident occurred on October 14, 2026, when the man reportedly sent his daughter to the shops before kissing and fondling the complainant despite her protests. He allegedly proceeded to have sexual intercourse with her without her consent.

The alleged offences came to light after the complainant's mother discovered that her daughter had tested positive for pregnancy.

According to the State, the teenager disclosed that her uncle had allegedly sexually assaulted her on three occasions, prompting her mother to report the matter to the police.

The complainant was subsequently medically examined, with the medical report expected to be presented in court as evidence.

Harare magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa postponed the bail ruling to October 23.

The accused has not been convicted, and the allegations remain before the courts.