Stepmother has sex with her mentally challenged stepson in Zhawari village under Chief Marange

A 53-year-old woman from Zhawari Village under Chief Marange has been remanded in custody by a Mutare magistrate after being charged with aggravated indecent assault involving her mentally challenged stepson.

The alleged offences, which reportedly occurred on three separate occasions in 2025, have prompted a criminal trial scheduled to begin on August 21.

Appearing before Magistrate Pathekile Msipha, the accused faces charges under Section 66 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23].

Prosecutor Nomathemba Sayi told the court that the woman allegedly initiated s€xu@l acts with the complainant both at home and in the bush while collecting firewood.

“On one occasion, while alone at home with the complainant, she instructed him to remove his trousers and shaved his pubic hair before engaging in S€xu@l intercourse with him under blankets,” said Ms Sayi.

The abuse reportedly came to light after villagers witnessed suspicious interactions between the woman and the boy and alerted the complainant’s aunt.

Upon being questioned, the boy disclosed the incidents, leading to a police report filed by his biological mother.

A medical examination was conducted, and its findings are expected to be presented during trial proceedings.

According to a report by The Manica Post, the alleged acts have sparked outrage in the local community, with calls for justice and protection of vulnerable individuals.

The court will reconvene on August 21 to hear further evidence, including medical results and witness testimonies.