Horrific incest case sees Madlambuzi father jailed for 20 years after raping underage daughter
The harrowing details of this case emerged in the Plumtree Magistrates’ Court, where the accused was convicted and handed down the lengthy prison term. According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe, the appalling incidents first began back in February 2020, when the victim was just 13 years old.
At the time, the accused was alone at home with his young daughter, who was playing in a bedroom hut. Taking advantage of this opportunity, the father approached the child and began inappropriately fondling her breasts. He then proceeded to remove her clothes and violently raped her.
The court heard how the accused had threatened to beat his daughter if she ever revealed the horrific abuse to anyone. Tragically, the father continued to rape the child each time he was left alone with her. The prolonged nightmare culminated in the victim becoming pregnant in June 2021, after which the father threatened to kill her if she disclosed his identity as the father of the child.
The harrowing ordeal finally came to light in January 2024, when the brave young victim confided in her mother about the abuse she had endured over the course of several years. A police report was promptly filed through the Department of Social Welfare, leading to the arrest of the accused.
In sentencing the 34-year-old man to 20 years behind bars, the magistrate delivered a clear message that such abhorrent crimes against children will not be tolerated. The victim, who is now 17 years old, has undoubtedly been scarred by the traumatic experiences she has endured, but it is hoped that this conviction and sentence will provide a measure of justice and closure.
This distressing case serves as a sobering reminder of the urgent need to strengthen child protection measures and ensure that predators are held accountable for their actions. As a society, we must remain vigilant and continue to advocate for the safety and well-being of the most vulnerable members of our communities.