Beitbridge Cross-Border Transporter Faces Trial for Molesting 13-Year-Old Daughter
A 53-year-old cross-border transporter based in Beitbridge is facing trial for allegedly molesting his 13-year-old daughter over a period of three years.
The man’s bid to halt the trial has been rejected by the local regional magistrate, Mr Innocent Bepura, who ruled that he must now present his defense.
Dismissal of Application for Discharge
After the State presented its case, Beitbridge Regional Magistrate Mr Innocent Bepura made a crucial ruling, stating that the accused had a case to answer. Consequently, the man’s application for discharge was dismissed. He is now required to present his defense starting tomorrow.
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Denial of Charges and Collusion Allegations
Through his lawyer, Mr Muchineripi Nhire, the father vehemently denies the three charges of rape brought against him. The accused is further implicated in colluding with his new wife to unlawfully terminate the resulting pregnancy in December of the previous year. The stepmother, aged 47, has already been sentenced to four years in prison for her involvement in the illegal abortion.
Chilling Details of the Alleged Crimes
According to the prosecuting representative, Miss Tsitsi Mutukwa, the series of horrifying incidents began in August 2020. On that night, it is alleged that the father found his 13-year-old daughter in the company of her stepmother and other children. Later, when the household retired to bed, he stayed with his daughter and assisted her with schoolwork during the holiday. It was during this time that he allegedly caressed and molested her while she sat on his lap.
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In October 2022 it is alleged that the father attempted to rape the girl again in her bedroom but was thwarted when he found her elder sister also sleeping in the same room. However, he allegedly raped her again in September 2023, taking advantage of her when she fell asleep while watching television.
Discovery of Pregnancy and Illegal Abortion
In the following month, the girl realized she was pregnant and confided in a church leader. The leader reported it to a pastor, and on December 3, the stepmother discovered the pregnancy. Learning of the father’s involvement, she bought medication for an abortion to hide the offense.
One of the girl’s friends exposed the illegal abortion, leading the religious leader to report it to the police. The girl received medical attention at Beitbridge District Hospital. Subsequently, both the father and stepmother were arrested, and the abortion medication was found at their home.
