by Gideon Madzikatidze/Simbarashe Sithole in Kezi
MATOBO – A 35-year old man was remanded in custody for attempting to rape his own niece after the victim’s mother found them naked in a bedroom.
Matebeleland South Provincial Magistrate Busani Sibanda, postponed the matter to July 25. The accused (name withheld for ethical reasons to protect the juvenile) was advised to apply for bail at the High Court or seek consent of provincial public prosecutor.
The state led by Godfrey Ziki alleged that on June 28 at around 23:00 hours, the complainant was sleeping with her mother in a bedroom hut and the accused (who is an uncle) gained access into their room through an unlocked door.
The accused took the complainant to his bedroom and threatened to beat her if she made any noise. He undressed the complainant and also himself with the intention to rape her.
Accused was only disturbed by the complainant’s mother who followed them and he immediately stopped the intended act. He later wore his trousers and ordered the complainant to wear her pants.
The matter was reported to ZRP Matobo where investigations were conducted leading to the accused’s arrest.