Story by Ropafadzo Mangome
A 20-year-old domestic worker has been sentenced to 30 years’ imprisonment by the Mutare Regional Magistrates’ Court after being convicted of raping his employer’s seven-year-old daughter.
In a statement released this Wednesday, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said the offence occurred on 13 December 2025 in the Chief Marange area.
According to the prosecution, the accused, who was employed by the child’s father and residing at the same homestead, assaulted the Grade Two pupil while she was alone in the house. The court heard that the offender abused the child after threatening her when she resisted.
“The offender who was employed by the victim’s father and residing at the same homestead as the victim, targeted the Grade two pupil while she was alone in the dining room watching television. He entered the house, undressed and ordered the victim to do the same. When she resisted, he threatened her and forced her onto a sofa where he raped her,” the statement read.
The matter came to light after the victim’s sibling noticed that the child was struggling to walk and experiencing difficulty when passing urine, prompting immediate intervention by family members and authorities.
Medical and forensic evidence presented in court corroborated the child’s account, leading to the accused’s conviction on two counts of rape following a full trial at the Mutare Regional Magistrates’ Court.
The NPA reiterated its commitment to the protection of minors and urged parents, guardians and communities to remain vigilant against sexual abuse, particularly by individuals in positions of trust.
The case highlights the justice system’s firm stance against crimes involving children, with authorities emphasising that offenders will face the full weight of the law.
