Teenage boy ordered to perform community service for raping his cousin in Inyathi

A 17-year-old boy from Inyathi who had sexual intercourse with his 12-year-old cousin has been ordered to perform 240 hours of community service.

The teenager, from Balanda Village 8, whose name cannot be disclosed to protect the identity of the victim, was convicted of having sexual intercourse with a minor by Bulawayo regional magistrate Ms Sibonginkosi Mkandla.

He was initially sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment. Six months were suspended for five years on condition that he does not commit a similar offence during that period, while the remaining 12 months were suspended on condition that he completes 240 hours of community service.

Prosecuting, Mr Jethro Mada told the court that the offence was committed on Christmas Day last year at around 8pm. The complainant was walking home from Balanda Business Centre with a friend when the accused, who was in the company of his own friend, approached them.

“The accused grabbed the complainant’s hand and dragged her into a nearby bush. She tried to escape but fell, and the accused forcibly removed her clothes and raped her,” Mr Mada said.

After the first assault, the accused fled from the scene. The complainant dressed and continued her journey home, but the accused followed her again. When she reached an area near a dam, the accused tripped her and raped her for a second time.

Upon arriving home, the complainant reported the incident to her family, who then made a report to the police. The teenager was subsequently arrested, and the victim was taken to Inyathi District Hospital for a medical examination.

Chronicle