Terrorist in court for rape, robbery

HARARE - AN Epworth man, who is suspected to be the ring-leader of a gang that allegedly went on a rape and robbing spree in Epworth, terrorising residents, yesterday appeared in court.

Tendai Mutemadondo (34) of 2671 Belapezi Farm in Epworth and his accomplices still at large would waylay people who would have disembarked from commuter omnibuses especially women.

Mutemadondo yesterday appeared before magistrate Tendai Mahwe charged with four counts of rape and robbery. Mr Mahwe remanded him in custody to December 23.

Due to the gravity of the offences, Mutemadondo was advised to approach the High Court for issues of bail.

Sebastian Mutizirwa alleged that on December 4 at around 6pm, two women who are vendors were coming from town when they disembarked from a kombi at Belapezi Farm. After walking for about 50 metres, Mutemadondo who was in the company of his accomplices suddenly approached the women from behind, the court heard.

They ordered them to stop and sit on the ground while threatening them with death. It is the State's case that the gang took away the women's mobile phones and cash among other goods.

They also took all their wares which they were carrying that included napkins, cellphone chargers and shopping bags.

Mutemadondo then grabbed one of the women and strangled her until she became unconscious. The following day, using the same method, Mutemadondo and his gang waylaid another woman who had disembarked from a commuter omnibus.

Mutemadondo grabbed the woman's neck and she tried to fight back but was overpowered by the gang, the State alleged. The court further heard that they took her mobile phone, cash and some clothes.

After the robbery, Mutemadondo went on to rape the woman twice without protection while his accomplices watched while standing on guard.

Mutemadondo was identified by the victims during a police identification parade.