Underage Cannot Consent: Beitbridge Man Jailed 15 Years

Beitbridge Man Jailed 15 Years For Relationship With  Underage 15-Year-Old Girl

A 25-year-old man from Beitbridge has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for sexually abusing a 15-year-old girl. The Beitbridge Regional Magistrates’ Court found him guilty of aggravated indecent assault and having sexual intercourse with a minor, crimes that cannot be excused as a “relationship.”

The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPA) confirmed the sentence in a statement released on 13 June 2025.

“He was sentenced to 15 years for aggravated indecent assault and 2 years for having sexual intercourse with a child. Both sentences will run concurrently,” the NPA said.

Abuse hidden as a relationship

The court heard the man took advantage of the girl, who was too young to legally consent. The abuse started in December 2024, when the man sexually assaulted her.

“The offender inserted his middle finger into the juvenile’s private parts,” the NPA confirmed.

After the victim confided in her mother, the offender was confronted but did not stop.

“On the 13th of April 2025, the offender went to the victim’s residence, found her home alone, and had sexual intercourse with her,” the court was told.

A police report was filed on 30 April 2025, which led to his arrest.

Communities must expose predators

The NPA stressed that protecting children means exposing offenders and ensuring they face justice.

“The protection of children is paramount. Creating a safe environment for children empowers them to speak out, ensuring their voices are heard, and holding perpetrators accountable,” the authority said.

“We must all play a role in fostering a society where children are free from fear and abuse.”

The legal age of consent in Zimbabwe is 18, and anyone engaging in sexual activity with a minor is committing a crime.

One local resident said:

“We cannot protect predators. They must be exposed so the community can be aware and protect its children.”

This conviction sends a clear message: predators will be caught, exposed, and punished. The community’s vigilance is vital in stopping abuse before it destroys young lives.