Five Convicted in Brutal Assault Case in Wedza

In a shocking case that has drawn widespread attention in Zimbabwe, five female villagers from Wedza, Mashonaland East province, have been convicted on multiple charges related to the assault of an 18-year-old girl. The incident, which occurred on July 4, 2024, involved the brutal beating and sexual assault of the victim, with the perpetrators recording the attack and sharing it on social media.

The Convictions

The five individuals, four of whom are juveniles under the age of 18 and one aged 19, were found guilty on four counts:

1. Aggravated indecent assault
2. Cyber-bullying
3. Unlawful detention
4. Assault

Sentencing

The court handed down varying sentences based on the age of the perpetrators:

• Vimbai Mike (19) and a 17-year-old (who is married with two children) each received:
  • Five years in jail for indecent assault
  • One year for cyber-bullying
  • One year for unlawful detention
  • One year for assault
  These sentences will run concurrently, resulting in an effective five-year term.
• The other three juveniles were spared custodial sentences but received a five-year suspended sentence, conditional on not committing similar offenses during that period.

Details of the Incident

According to the state’s case:

• On July 4, 2024, at approximately 11:00 AM, three of the convicted individuals lured the victim, Mavis Mada (18), to Vimbai Mike’s homestead in Mupfuuri village under the pretense of giving her vegetable seedlings.
• The victim was then locked in a hut, stripped naked, and assaulted with sticks.
• The attackers inserted three sticks into the victim’s private parts while recording the assault on video.
• The ordeal lasted until 3:00 PM, during which time the victim lost consciousness and had water poured on her before being released.

Investigation and Arrest

The case came to light when the recorded video went viral on social media platforms, prompting a police investigation. This led to the arrest of the five individuals and the recovery of a Vivo cellphone used to record the incident.

Implications

This case has raised serious concerns about violence against women and girls in Zimbabwe, as well as the misuse of social media platforms to perpetrate further harm. It also highlights the complexities involved in cases where some of the perpetrators are themselves minors.

Legal experts and social activists are likely to closely examine this case for its implications on juvenile justice, cyber laws, and measures to combat gender-based violence in Zimbabwe.