Hwange – Shepherd Mudimba (24), from Gwatagwata Village in Binga, has appeared before Hwange regional magistrate Mr Lungile Dube, facing a charge of rape. The accused is alleged to have raped his 13-year-old “girlfriend.” He has been remanded in custody until February 20th for trial.
Prosecuting, Mrs Charline Gorerino told the court that sometime last year in February, the accused was allegedly involved in a romantic relationship with the minor.
The court heard that on 14 January this year, Mudimba and the complainant started cohabiting as husband and wife. Mudimba stayed with the juvenile for four days until the complainant’s father discovered that his daughter had gone missing.
During this time, Mudimba allegedly raped the girl. The matter came to light when the complainant’s father discovered that her daughter was not home. He later got information that his daughter was at Mudimba’s place, and sent his neighbour to go and fetch the victim.
A report was subsequently made to the police, leading to Mudimba’s arrest.
The complainant was medically examined, and a medical report compiled by doctors will be produced in court as evidence.
