A 40-year-old motor mechanic from Rukweza Business Centre in Nyazura has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to serious charges involving the abuse of his 13-year-old son. The court withheld his name to protect the identity of the victim. The incident came to light after the child fled their home and was later found living on the streets of Rusape.
The man reportedly sought advice from a traditional healer in hopes of improving his business and claimed he was told to commit the crime. The court heard that he harassed his wife until she left their home, creating an opportunity to carry out the abuse in her absence.
When the child could no longer endure the mistreatment, he escaped from the homestead. He was eventually found by his mother at Evergreen Market in Rusape. Upon questioning, the boy disclosed the abuse he had suffered, prompting the mother to report the matter to the authorities.
A medical examination was conducted at Rusape General Hospital to support the case. The man, unrepresented in court, admitted to the charges and explained his actions were based on the traditional healer’s alleged advice. Magistrate Francis Mapfumo strongly condemned the act and issued the maximum sentence without suspension.
Prosecutor Marlon Makamba provided the court with details of the case, stating that the abuse occurred over several months from November 2024 to March 2025. The case has shocked the local community and underscored the dangers of harmful beliefs and misguided practices.
