Babysitter (23) assist paedophile (55) rape friend's daughter (3).

A 23-year-old Harare woman, who was left to babysit her friend's three-year-old daughter, has been arrested on allegations of assisting her 55-year-old paedophile lover to rape the minor.

Talent Nyama has been in hiding since June 5 until this week when she was arrested.

Her lover Andreason Makaza has since appeared in court facing rape charges.

Harare regional magistrate Mr Daniel Shonhiwa separately remanded Nyama and Makaza in custody to July 11 for routine remand.

Mr Shonhiwa advised the pair to apply for bail at the High Court.
Their trial has been set for July 26.

The duo's criminal court records would now be consolidated for purposes of trial.

At law, anyone who assists or plays a part in the commission of rape is equally guilty of the same offence.

Prosecutor Ms Valery Ngoma alleges that the offence was committed on June 5 when Nyama went to Mbare to buy paraffin in the company of the toddler.

Nyama had previously been entrusted with custody of the toddler for three months when the mother travelled to South Africa on business.

On her way to Mbare, it is alleged, Nyama diverted her way to Makaza's house in Avondale.

She allegedly spent two days there with the little girl without telling the mother.

It is also alleged that Makaza with the assistance of Nyama, raped the girl and ordered her not to disclose the abuse to anyone. Nyama is alleged to have given the minor some chocolate and "maputi" to stop her from crying.

It is alleged that Nyama got payment from Makaza for the services.

The matter came to light when the girl complained of pain while bathing.

She later revealed the rape to her mother and a report was made leading to Makaza's arrest