Man Jailed 20 Years for Raping Granddaughters Aged 13 & 12
A 52-year-old man from Filabusi, Matabeleland South, has been jailed for 20 years for raping his 13-year-old granddaughter on four occasions and indecently assaulting her 12-year-old sister.
The man from Phumelela village under Chief Maduna appeared before Gwanda regional magistrate Sthembiso Ndebele, with prosecutor Ngonidzashe Shumba representing the state.
The prosecutor said the abuse occurred between November 2025 and June 2026 at the man’s homestead.
The 13-year-old girl was subjected to unwanted sexual advances before being raped on four separate occasions at different places, including inside a cattle kraal, in the fields and in the kitchen.
On June 4, the man allegedly cornered his 12-year-old granddaughter in a bedroom, offered her snacks, and indecently assaulted her.
He also repeatedly threatened to commit suicide if the children disclosed the abuse.
The abuse came to light after the 12-year-old girl fled the homestead and sought refuge at her maternal aunt’s home, where she disclosed what had happened.
The matter was reported to the police, leading to the man’s arrest, while both girls were referred to the hospital for medical examinations.
Ndebele sentenced him to 20 years in prison on the rape charge and another 20 years for aggravated indecent assault.
The sentences were ordered to run concurrently, leaving him with an effective 20-year prison term. *Zimlive*
