A 19-year-old man will spend an effective 10 years behind bars after attempting to rape a 16-year-old schoolgirl in Chimanimani.
The Chipinge Regional Magistrates’ Court convicted the offender following the September 15 attack in Satiya Village, under Chief Muusha.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the man approached the Form Three pupil along a forest path. He proposed a sexual relationship, but she rejected his advances.
However, he refused to accept her decision and resorted to violence.
Schoolgirl Fights Off Attacker in Forest
The offender grabbed the teenager and dragged her into the forest before demanding sexual intercourse.
When she resisted, he overpowered her and pushed her to the ground. He then attempted to rape her.
However, the schoolgirl fought back and bit his left thumb. Her resistance forced the attacker to release her, allowing her to escape.
She immediately sought assistance at a nearby homestead, where she reported the ordeal. With help from people at the homestead, she subsequently filed a police report.
The report prompted an investigation that ultimately led to the man’s arrest and conviction.
Court Hands Down Effective 10-Year Sentence
Following the trial, the court initially sentenced the 19-year-old to 15 years in prison.
However, the magistrates suspended five years of the sentence for five years. Consequently, the offender must serve an effective 10 years behind bars.
The case highlights the importance of reporting sexual violence and pursuing justice for survivors.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe continues to prosecute cases involving sexual offences and other crimes through the courts.
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