Gwanda – A man from Gwanda is facing serious charges after allegedly raping his sister-in-law following her rejection of his romantic advances. The accused, whose identity is being withheld to protect the victim, made a brief appearance before Gwanda provincial magistrate Patience Madondo, where he was formally charged with rape. He has been remanded in custody until April 28, when he is scheduled to apply for bail at the regional court.
Prosecutor Ngonidzashe Shumba told the court that the harrowing incident occurred in March 2025. The 28-year-old complainant was reportedly walking home from Simbumbumbu Clinic when she encountered her brother-in-law. After a seemingly normal exchange of greetings, the two parted ways.
However, according to the prosecution, the accused allegedly followed the complainant. He then confronted her, declaring his love for her. When she rebuffed his advances, the situation allegedly turned violent.
The court heard that the accused is alleged to have forcefully dragged his sister-in-law into a nearby bushy area, where he raped her. The victim was left traumatised as a result of the ordeal.
The accused was not asked to enter a plea, and investigations into the alleged rape are continuing. He faces as many as 20 years in prison if found guilty.
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